United Arab Emirates - The BAE Systems Hawk programme has achieved another significant milestone, with the UK Ministry of Defence signing a production contract for 28 of the new version of the Hawk advanced jet trainer. The UK contract confirms Hawk's position as one of the most capable advanced jet trainers available in the market today to train pilots for next generation combat aircraft such as Typhoon and the F-35 Lightning II.
Lord Drayson, UK Minister for Defence Procurement said: "This highly advanced training aircraft will help ensure that our front line pilots retain their battle winning edge in the 21st century. It is the right choice for training aircrew for future operational missions."
Simon Keith, BAE Systems' Managing Director Middle East commented: "The Hawk, an all new aircraft but with a great pedigree, is proving to be a popular choice and BAE Systems is offering the same aircraft that will be used by the Royal Air Force, to meet advanced jet trainer requirements in a number of markets across the world."
At the same time, BAE Systems has just delivered the first batch of new Hawks to Bahrain in a move that continues the advanced jet trainers' success in the Gulf region. Bahrain joins the United Kingdom in choosing the latest version of BAE Systems' Hawk as the aircraft of choice to deliver pilot training for frontline aircraft due to superior handling, performance and technology.
The latest generation Hawk aircraft has evolved from a successful family of proven jet trainer aircraft, some 900 of which have been sold around the world. In the latest version of the Hawk serviceability has been improved to minimise support costs, to give unprecedented availability for flying and provide the most cost-effective training system available. One key development provides on board simulation of full radar and weapons systems providing pilots with a realistic frontline experience in a safe and less costly training environment.
The aircraft is also equipped with world-class avionics technology that has similar functionality to that found in the latest generation frontline combat aircraft. It has IN/GPS navigational systems for pinpoint navigational accuracy and a Ground-Proximity Warning System to enhance safety during low-level flying.
Hawk's new and more powerful Rolls Royce 951 engine is equipped with Full Authority Digital Engine Control that gives the pilots completely carefree handling of the throttle throughout the whole of the aircraft's flight envelope, exactly like modern fighter aircraft.
Becoming the latest operator of the world famous Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer, the Royal Bahraini Air Force received the first of the Hawk jets at Shaikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain after a four-day ferry flight from the UK.
The contract forms part of the modernisation of the Bahrain Defence Force as directed by the HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander of the Bahrain Defence Force, Bahrain.
By early 2007, the remaining Hawks will be delivered to Bahrain to form the core of an integrated training system for their F-16 Block 40 pilots. These Hawks, along with a package of equipment, support and training also being provided by BAE Systems, will enable the Royal Bahraini Air Force to train its frontline pilots and develop an indigenous military flying training capability.
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About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier transatlantic defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 86,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded GB15.4 billion (US$28 billion) in 2005.
For further information contact:
Kelly Smith
Tel: +971 50 498 3085
kelly.s@actionprgroup.com
Issued by:
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Dubai Media City,
UAE
Tel: +971 4 369 3495
On behalf of:
BAE SYSTEMS,
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UK.
www.baesystems.com
© Press Release 2006
