Avalon – 1 March 2011: On the opening day of the Australian International Airshow the Managing Director of Raytheon Australia, Mr Michael Ward, presented an upbeat assessment of the aerospace prospects for Australia’s defence industry.

 Mr Ward said that the outlook for Defence aerospace was exciting, pointing out that in the next five years alone, decisions would be made on future capabilities for fixed and rotary wing flying training, as well as tactical transport, maritime patrol and Australia’s future fighter solution. He also noted that there continues to be a major role for industry in supporting the nation’s current capabilities.

Mr Ward detailed the elements which have contributed to the growth of Raytheon Australia’s portfolio of aerospace programs and that had permitted Raytheon Australia to forge a strong reputation as a trusted partner in aerospace. He said that Raytheon had both invested in, and delivered on projects encompassing the full range of aircraft operations, systems integration, simulation and training, airworthiness management, and performance based mission support. Mr Ward indicated that the company had also spent this time preparing to meet the future capability needs of the Australian Defence Force. He pointed out that in tandem with these efforts the company had forged strong partnerships, developed and matured compelling solutions and was standing ready to play its part in supporting modern aerospace capabilities for its military customer.

Against this backdrop, Avalon 2011 provides an excellent opportunity for Raytheon to showcase its aerospace pedigree and solutions. The company also intended to demonstrate the wealth of experience across the sensors and effectors domain as well as for air traffic management systems — which provide new opportunities to improve flight safety and situational awareness for both civil and military customers in Australia. Mr Ward said a particular focus would be upon the company’s plans for fixed and rotary wing aerospace training.

“Through this unique opportunity to showcase the breadth of our aerospace capabilities and solutions we look forward to reinforcing our reputation as a trusted partner in aerospace for our military customers,” he said.

Raytheon Australia’s strong aerospace presence will be further highlighted on the company’s website www.raytheon.com.au through a variety of accompanying capability statements, images and videos.

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Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN), with 2010 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 89 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.

Further information:
Gerry Wheeler
+61 439 501 327
gerard.wheeler@raytheon.com.au