Second Phase of Avionics Upgrade for 78 CF-18 Aircraft

L-3 Communications , NEW YORK: L-3 Communications announced today that its Canadian MAS (L-3 MAS) subsidiary has been awarded a CDN $39 million (US $34 million) contract by Boeing for the second phase of a project to upgrade 78 CF-18 aircraft for Canada's Department of National Defence (DND). 
 
The two-phased modernization project, which began in April 2001, will bring the Canadian Air Force fleet of CF-18 Hornets into full interoperability with the equipment of key allies and extend the life of the aircraft through 2017. The project includes modernizing specifications of newer models through an avionics configuration upgrade program. This approach allows the Canadian Forces uninterrupted access to and use of its CF-18 fleet. 
 
Phase two will add a data link system, a helmet-mounted sight system, new cockpit displays and a new flare-dispensing electronic warfare system to the Hornet aircraft. Much of this work will be conducted at the L-3 MAS facility in Mirabel. 
 
Phase one equipped the CF-18s with improved communication and navigation capabilities. Upgrades included new mission computers and radios for communications purposes, an APG-73 radar system that is compatible with NATO-ally air forces, a stores management system for weapon-system and associated-equipment control, and a combined interrogator/transponder system that ensures allies recognize Canadian CF-18 aircraft as “friendlies.” 
 
“These upgrades represent a cost-effective way for Canada to sustain very effective combat aircraft capabilities into the 21st century,” said Sylvain Bedard, president of L-3 MAS. “We feel the combination of L-3 MAS' extensive experience on the CF-18 platform and the dedication of our employees has enabled us to meet the expectations of both Boeing and the DND. We have supported the Canadian Force's CF-18 fleet for more than 18 years and we are very proud to see this successful relationship continue.” 
 
L-3 MAS is among Canada's leading providers of aircraft fleet management, product life-cycle extension, in-service support services, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and aircraft maintenance to government departments and agencies and commercial customers. L-3 MAS employs 920 people at operating centres in Cold Lake, Ottawa, Mirabel, Bagotville and Williamtown (Australia). L-3 MAS, in addition to providing extensive fleet management, engineering and maintenance support for the Canadian Forces and Royal Australian Air Force fleets of the F-18 fighter aircraft, is the leader in providing in-service support for the new CH-148 Cyclone helicopter. 
 
Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications is a leading provider of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems, secure communications systems, aircraft modernization, training and government services.