26 September 2001

The new designs will upgrade the current Howitzer Gun System actuators being tested. The new equipment will also offer United Defense L.P. greater reliability, serviceability and mobility in the field due to its modular design concept, will be lighter in weight and will offer equal or greater performance. UDLP has placed greater reliance on Smiths Aerospace actuators and sub-systems to ensure the success of the program. Smiths Aerospace is also developing the high voltage main generator system for the Crusader self-propelled howitzer and re-supply vehicle. 

John Ferrie, President of Smiths Aerospace, commented, "The Crusader win represents our continued development in the land systems business and supports the Army in becoming a highly mobile force."

Crusader is a full spectrum, stand-off precision attack system that transforms landpower on the 21st Century network-centric battlefield. Tracked and wheeled re-supply vehicles support the self-propelled 155-mm howitzer (SPH). Two Crusader vehicles will be strategically deployable by C-17 aircraft to participate in the full spectrum of Army missions. Crusader carries key technologies critical to the next family of ground combat vehicles that will meet the Army transition initiatives. Fielding the Crusader is a top priority for the US Army and plans call for the first Crusader to be fielded in 2008.

Smiths Aerospace is the leading transatlantic aerospace equipment company, with half its 12,000 staff and $2 billion revenues in North America. The company holds key positions in the supply chains of all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers and are world-leaders in electronic systems, actuation systems and precision components.