British company Smiths Industries Aerospace has won a contract to supply equipment for the power distribution system on the Lockheed Martin C-130J Hercules transport aircraft.
The contract is with Smiths' Display and Control Systems division and involves the provision of an enhanced electronic circuit breaker unit (ECBU) system, with deliveries beginning early in 2001.
This award is part of Lockheed Martin's C-130J affordability initiative, with Smiths Industries replacing the incumbent supplier.
Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems' president Tom Burbage says: "The unit was selected because of its affordability, greater reliability and supportability and increased performance. We welcome their further participation on the C-130J."
Orders for the aircraft so far include for the USAF and further KC-130J tanker versions for the US Marine Corps. In addition, there is a strong international market for the aircraft, with the potential to sell as many as 400 aircraft, including a launch order for 25 for the UK Royal Air Force.
The ECBUs - which use innovative solid-state power control technology developed for the power management and distribution system on the Lockheed Martin Boeing F-22 fighter - will be built at Smiths Industries' plant at Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.
Source: Flight Daily News
