ULTRA ELECTRONICS is to supply HiPPAG 320 cooling systems for Eurofighter EF2000s and Italian navy McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harriers. The system is an electronically controlled air compressor and purification unit which supplies high-pressure gas to cool the infra red seeker of the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile.
The $3 million EF2000 contract is for delivery of sufficient units to cover the development phase of the Eurofighter programme, funded by four nations. The HiPPAG 320 will be standard equipment in the multi-function rail launcher and integrated tip-stub pylon launcher being developed by the ACMA consortium to carry short-range air-to-air missiles on the EF2000.
The Italian navy deal, valued at $1 million, covers the supply of HiPPAG 320 units and associated test equipment for 16 ordered AV-8B Harrier II Plus.
Source: Flight International