Canada's L-3 WESCAM imaging systems mark 1,000 flight hours on Airbus C295

System proposed for Canada's Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue Project

OTTAWA, Sept. 26, 2016 /CNW/ - Airbus Defence and Space announced today that advanced electro-optical/infrared turret systems produced by L-3 WESCAM of Burlington, ON, reached the 1,000 flight-hour mark in service on customer operated Airbus C295 maritime patrol aircraft.

"We congratulate L-3 WESCAM on this milestone," said Simon Jacques, President Airbus Defence and Space Canada. "L-3 WESCAM is a Canadian global leader in sophisticated imaging systems and we are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with them."

In addition to providing imaging systems for the worldwide fleet of C295 aircraft, L-3 WESCAM is a major partner in the Airbus Defence and Space bid to supply the C295W as Canada's new fixed-wing search and rescue (FWSAR) aircraft.

"The C295W and its integrated search and rescue mission system and sensors are already in service and proven," Jacques said. "The C295W meets Canada's demanding search and rescue requirements, and we are confident that our proposal for the FWSAR project provides the most long-term benefits and international opportunities to Canadian industry."

All C295Ws sold worldwide feature substantial Canadian content. In addition to the advanced imaging systems provided by L-3 WESCAM, Pratt & Whitney Canada provides the C295W's engines, and CAE furnishes flight simulators and training systems. In the FWSAR role for Canada, PAL Aerospace will provide in-service support for Canada's C295Ws in partnership with Airbus Defence and Space.

Airbus Defence and Space has sold 168 C295s and C295Ws in 23 countries, and the aircraft is operating around the world in different configurations, including maritime patrol and search and rescue.

SOURCE Airbus Defence and Space

Contacts for the media: Mike Powell, [phone], [email protected]; Kieran Daly, [phone], [email protected]