Curtiss-Wright Corporation has received a contract to produce recovery assist, secure and traverse (RAST) systems in support of the US Navy DDG 51 flight IIA forward-build programme.

Under the multimillion-dollar contract, one RAST system will be initially authorised to support DDG 113 with options for follow-on systems for DDG 114 and DDG 115 destroyers.

RAST is a helicopter-handling system that integrates all the functions required for safe operations of large ship-borne helicopters.

The system aids in safe launch and recovery, securing and manoeuvring of helicopters, especially in difficult weather and sea conditions.

Work will be carried out by Indal Technologies in Canada, with the first delivery scheduled for December 2012.

Approximately 200 integrated aircraft handling systems have been delivered to navies around the world.