ORLANDO, Fla., MUNICH and ROME, June 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The first MEADS power and communications unit recently completed acceptance testing in Germany and will power the first Multifunction Fire Control Radar (MFCR) during integration tests at Pratica di Mare, Italy.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120612/FL23020 )

The truck-mounted power and communications unit provides power for the MEADS MFCR and the surveillance radar. It includes a diesel-powered generation unit. A separate commercial power interface unit permits radar operation using commercial power (50 Hertz/60 Hertz).

MEADS International Technical Director Marco Riccetti said, "The MEADS power and communications unit, as with other MEADS elements, is designed for mobility and transportability, including C-130 transport. It has a highly reliable design that meets the power needs of both MEADS radars, and is ready to operate across a broad range of environmental conditions on a rapid emplacement timeline."

A second MFCR power and communications unit is undergoing qualification testing at the German Armed Forces Technical Centre for Automotive and Armoured Vehicles in Trier, Germany. The MEADS power and communications unit was designed and manufactured under a subcontract from MBDA by Lechmotoren in Altenstadt, Germany.

By combining advanced 360-degree sensors, near-vertical launch capability and the improved PAC-3 MSE Missile, MEADS can defend up to eight times the coverage area with far fewer system assets. MEADS also lowers costs because it needs fewer personnel and less equipment, with further savings by reducing demand for airlift.

An initial MEADS flight test was successfully completed at White Sands Missile Range in November 2011. Integration work continues in support of two upcoming intercept tests planned at White Sands Missile Range.

MEADS International, a multinational joint venture headquartered in Orlando, Fla., is the prime contractor for the MEADS system. Major subcontractors and joint venture partners are MBDA in Italy and Germany, and Lockheed Martin in the United States.

The MEADS program management agency NAMEADSMA is located in Huntsville, Ala.

SOURCE MEADS International