14 Mar 2008 | Ref. 092/2008
ELGIN, Oklahoma – BAE Systems today announced plans to produce the Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) 155mm self-propelled howitzer system at the company’s new 150,000 square-foot facility scheduled for completion in 2009, located in the Fort Sill Industrial Park.
Work at BAE Systems – Elgin Operations will provide 100 jobs and focus on production of the PIM for current forces and the Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) Cannon for the U.S. Army’s Future Combat Systems (FCS) program. PIM will provide critical upgrades to already existing Paladins that will increase reliability, commonality, and performance of the M109 family of vehicles – a critical fire support asset to Heavy Brigade Combat Teams (HBCT). The significant addition of the PIM system to the BAE Systems – Elgin Operations production line builds off the work NLOS-Cannon will bring to the Elgin/Comanche County region.
“Paladin is a battle-proven system that is critical for the success of U.S. Soldiers and Marines for the next 40 years,” said Raj Rajagopal, president of Ground Systems. “PIM will ensure Paladin is viable and capable of supporting Soldiers and platforms while solving readiness and long-term modernization needs on the battlefield.”
“We have our best people ensuring effective management of battle-proven Paladin and revolutionary NLOS Cannon programs – systems that are critical to the welfare of troops on the front lines,” said Jim Unterseher, vice-president of Army Programs, Armament Systems at BAE Systems. “We have been committed to this region since day one and today’s announcement of the PIM production ensures long-term growth at the facility and the beginning of broadening our portfolio of programs in Elgin.”
BAE Systems launched the PIM program in 2007 to ensure the Army’s Paladin fleet remains ready and sustainable through its projected life beyond the year 2050. PIM will integrate modern electric gun drive systems of the Paladin as well as maximize commonality with existing systems in the HBCT by replacing obsolete components within the mobility platform (chassis). PIM and NLOS Cannon are complimentary weapon systems supporting our soldiers in the current and future force formations.
About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is the premier global defense and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 97,500 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded $31.4 billion in 2007.
For further information, please contact:
Ryan May, BAE Systems
Tel: +1 763 572 6675 Mobile: +1 612 597 0957
ryan.may@baesystems.com
Shannon Smith BAE Systems
Tel: +1 703 907 8257 Mobile: +1 703 967 3854
shannon.n.smith@baesystems.com
www.baesystems.com
