The US Navy has received its first electronic consolidated automated support system (eCASS) from Lockheed Martin.
Using the system, sailors and marines will be able to troubleshoot and repair naval aircraft electronic components at sea and ashore, and rapidly make them operational.
US Navy Naval Air Systems Command Automated Test Systems deputy programme manager Chris Giggey said: "With eCASS, the (US) Department of the Navy will enable a cost avoidance of more than $1bn annually by averting the repair of avionics at the next level of maintenance or sending the parts back to the original equipment manufacturer."
The navy has ordered 38 stations and plans to deploy eCASS on every aircraft carrier and at aircraft intermediate maintenance depots. In total, 341 stations are expected to be deployed.
Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training Enterprise Test Solutions director Randy Core said: "Our focus is providing sailors and marines with the most effective tool to maintain the navy’s aircraft, because they are called on to ensure security anytime and anywhere.
"eCASS advances automated testing to maximise aircraft availability worldwide."
Lockheed claims that the system is capable of supporting more than 750 avionics components and a range of electronic equipment on carriers, other maritime craft and at shore, reducing the amount of equipment required for deployments.
Image: Lockheed Martin’s eCASS. Photo: courtesy of Lockheed Martin Corporation.
