EADS DS Supplies Nationwide Security Data Fusion System to Finland

43 million Euro contract signed

Finland on forefront of introducing Network-Enhanced Capabilities

(July 2, 2010) -- EADS Defence & Security (DS) will equip the Finnish Defence Forces with a nationwide data fusion system creating in real-time a comprehensive security situation picture.

The Finnish Air Force Materiel Command has awarded Defence Electronics, an integrated activity of DS, a contract valued at EUR 43 million to implement under the designation Multi-Sensor Tracking System (MST) until 2016 the second phase of a distributed data-fusion system. The first phase had been awarded in 2004 and was concluded successfully end of 2009 after extensive field trials.

"MST will give Finland a lead in introducing network-enhanced situation picture generation capabilities for Airforce and Joint operations", explained Bernd Wenzler, Head of Defence Electronics. "Our experience in fusioning surveillance and reconnaissance data clearly supports the ability of Finnish authorities in countering rapidly a variety of threats against their citizens."

The network-based and distributed architecture of MST enhances the survivability of the entire surveillance system. It enables the coordination of sensors, force deployment and decision making at all levels, improving interoperability and protection decisively.

The MST system concept takes advantage from the company's skills in sensor technologies and its participation in several sensor-fusion programmes, such as the NATO AWACS early warning fleet and the similar Australian "Wedgetail" and the Turkish "Peace Eagle" programmes.

Source : European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company EADS N.V. (Paris: EAD.PA) - click here for more information