Harris Awarded $7.7 Million Contract By Sea-based X-band Radar

Melbourne - Sep 19, 2003
Harris Corporation has been awarded a $7.7 million contract by Boeing to provide systems engineering, integration services, and satellite communications equipment for the U.S. Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) Sea-Based X-band (SBX) Radar program. X-Band Radar (XBR) is the tracking and discrimination radar used for the Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system.

"This very important win for Harris will allow us to apply both our commercial satellite communications technology and our proven defense communications system integration expertise," said Bob Henry, senior vice president, Harris Corporation, and president, Harris Government Communications Systems Division (GCSD).

"We're excited that Harris technology will play yet another key role in our nation's ballistic missile defense initiatives."

The SBX radar system will be deployed on a mobile, floating platform. Continuous communications between the platform and shore facilities will be provided via a commercial C-band satellite, using a unique redundant dual- antenna system designed and furnished by Harris Maritime Communication Services (MCS) subsidiary.

Harris MCS provides satellite communications services to cruise ships, remote land-based locations around the world, and to data collection sites thousands of meters below the ocean's surface.

"We are privileged to have the opportunity to utilize our experience in designing and operating marine-stabilized satellite earth stations in support of this important national defense project," said Dr. Andrew Clark, president of Harris MCS.

MISSILE DEFENSE

Northrop Grumman To Develop Illuminator Laser For Missile Defense

Redondo Beach - Sep 18, 2003
Northrop Grumman's Space Technology sector will develop the Strategic Illuminator Laser (SILL) for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), providing a crucial component for systems such as the Airborne Laser (ABL) and future space-based programs.