The Brazilian Navy has awarded a direct subcontract to Elbit Systems of America to modernise four of its Grumman C-1A aircraft.
The prime contract is being awarded to Arizona-based Marsh Aviation, although the modernisation work under the $106m agreement will be undertaken by Elbit Systems of America at M7 Aerospace’s facilities in San Antonio, Texas, US, over a five-year period.
Elbit Systems of America president and chief executive officer Raanan Horowitz said: "We are pleased to upgrade the Brazilian Navy’s aircraft.
"As an OEM and type-certificate owner of twin-engine, fixed-wing aircraft, we have the expertise to maintain transport and special mission aircraft.
"We built a solid reputation of meeting commitments to our customers and with the successful execution of this overhaul and modernisation programme we will be able to assist in enhancing the capabilities of the Brazilian Navy."
The upgrade programme involves aircraft return to service, engine replacement, installation and incorporation of new avionics, including glass cockpit, and new communication and ECS systems, in addition to air-to-air refuelling capabilities.
Upon completion the aircraft will be named as KC-2 carrier onboard delivery / air-to-air refuelling (COD/AAR) aircraft, and will be deployed on the NAe Sao Paulo, a Brazilian Navy aircraft carrier.
Elbit’s Brazilian subsidiary AEL Sistemas will deliver in-country contractor logistic support services for the programme as a subcontractor to Elbit Systems of America.
