Feb 7 2008
The government of France awarded Raytheon Company a direct commercial sales contract Jan. 18 worth $22 million for the combat-proven Enhanced Paveway(TM) II (EP2) dual- mode GPS/laser-guided precision munition and weapons integration for the French Air Force's Mirage 2000D fighter aircraft.
Raytheon's Paveway II (P2) laser-guided smart bombs already equip the Mirage 2000D, which supports U.S. and other NATO forces in Afghanistan. EP2 first achieved initial operational capability on the French Navy's Super Etendard fighter aircraft in 2007, which also benefited the French Air Force.
The contract calls for Raytheon to provide the French Air Force with upgrade kits to convert 500-pound P2 laser-guided bombs into the more capable dual-mode GBU-49 and includes additional options for more EP2 systems. The GBU-49 is a precision weapon that has been extensively employed by U.S. and allied forces in both Afghanistan and Iraq. EP2 is already in operational use on several other U.S. and NATO military aircraft including the French Navy's Super Etendard.
"EP2 gives our French operators a true all-weather precision-attack capability," said Commander Yann de Champsavin, French Navy program officer. "EP2 matches real affordability with unrivalled standoff range, accuracy and reliability. That is why EP2 is a clear weapon of choice for our Air Forces."
"France is a highly valued member of a rapidly growing number of global partners in the Enhanced Paveway program," said Ricky Freibert, director of Raytheon's Paveway program. "Raytheon's international investments continue to drive down cost for future and existing customers while greatly enhancing interoperability between militaries."
Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning more than 85 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.