Israeli company Elbit Systems has been awarded a contract to increase the operational capabilities of the Romanian Navy.
Under the contract, the company will deliver Elbit Systems SPECTRO XR electro-optical/infrared payload for incorporation onto the service’s IAR SA330 helicopters.
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Work will be carried out over the next year. Value of the contract has not been disclosed.
The SPECTRO XR is a lightweight payload system developed to function in modern complex operational environments.
The payload offers day-and-night intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities at an extended range in different weather situations.
It also provides improved situational awareness by offering continuous target scanning capabilities.
The Romanian Navy’s IAR helicopters have already completed a successful upgrade programme.
The aircraft are operated from Navy frigates to conduct a range of missions such as search and rescue, medical evacuation and maritime surveillance.
Elbit Systems has also secured three more contracts to support the Nato nation’s PUMA helicopters and IAR99 advanced fighter trainer aircraft.
As part of the contracts, the company will deliver a comprehensive electronic warfare (EW) suite for six PUMA helicopters and for a further six aircraft in the future.
In addition, Elbit’s HDTS type head systems, SPECTRO XR electro-optical systems, aircraft mission package and Brightnite systems will be supplied to local partner IAR Brasov.
These capabilities will be installed and integrated on PUMA 330 SAR helicopters operated by the Romanian Air Force (RoAF).
Furthermore, Elbit Systems will also support the upgrade of the RoAF’s IAR99 advanced fighter trainer aircraft.
Elbit Systems International Marketing & Business Development executive vice-president Ran Kril said: “These contracts extend Elbit Systems’ track record delivering successful projects to the Romanian Armed Forces, including follow-on contracts awarded after Elbit Systems first was contracted to upgrade helicopters and aircraft.”
