HAMBLE, United Kingdom, Feb 20, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- ESL, a strategic business of AAI Test & Training, an operating unit of Textron Systems, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has been selected by Elettronica S.p.A. (ELT) to participate in the IBOSEC program.

The Aeronautica Militare Italiana (AMI), or Italian Air Force, has contracted with ELT for a characterisation system for passive infrared sensors, also known as seekers. The IBOSEC system will be installed at the Experimental Flight Centre - Armament Department of AMI. The system will be used to optimise the performance of both flare countermeasures and directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) through the validation of flare signatures and jamming codes, enhancing aircraft survivability against infrared-guided threats.

Under the IBOSEC program, ELT will collaborate closely with ESL, which specialises in the design and production of electronic warfare test systems that provide high-fidelity threat simulation in the infrared and ultraviolet domains.

"The IBOSEC system will provide critical capabilities to the AMI, helping to save both lives and aircraft," says Managing Director Bob Fox of ESL. "ESL's extensive knowledge base in this area makes our team ideally suited to support ELT in delivering this advanced technology."

About AAI

AAI Corporation and its indirect wholly owned subsidiaries Aerosonde Pty Ltd and ESL Defence Limited design, produce and support industry-leading aerospace and defense products and services, including unmanned aircraft and ground control technologies; high-fidelity training and simulation systems; automated aerospace test and maintenance equipment; armament systems; and logistical, engineering, supply chain and operational support services. AAI Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.aaicorp.com.

About Textron Systems

Textron Systems Corporation has been providing innovative solutions to the defense, homeland security and aerospace communities for more than 50 years. Known for its unmanned aircraft systems, advanced marine craft, armored vehicles, intelligent battlefield and surveillance systems, intelligence software solutions, precision smart weapons, piston engines, test and training systems, and total life cycle sustainment services, Textron Systems includes AAI Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Overwatch, Textron Defense Systems and Textron Marine & Land Systems. Textron Systems Corporation is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Textron Inc. More information is available at www.textronsystems.com.

About Textron Inc.

Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.

AAI and design is a registered trademark of AAI Corporation

SOURCE: Textron

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