Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT - News) has received a contract from the Canadian Forces for 36 Sniper® Advanced Targeting Pods (ATP), making the Canadian Forces the seventh international customer to join the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard flying with the Sniper ATP. The contract includes spares, support equipment and integrated logistics support until 2020. Lockheed Martin is not disclosing the value of the contract.

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"The Sniper ATP was selected due to its technical ability to meet the Canadian Forces' mission needs, and Sniper's proven capability to deliver the high-resolution imagery sought after for non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions," said Rich Lovette, director of International Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

With deliveries beginning in April 2007, the Canadian Forces will benefit from Sniper ATP's exceptional stability and superior imagery, allowing aircrews to positively identify targets from extended standoff ranges. The Canadian Forces join the Royal Norwegian Air Force; the Polish Air and Air Defense Force; the Royal Air Force of Oman; the Belgium Defence; the UK Ministry of Defence; and other international customers with the selection of the Sniper ATP.

Sniper ATP's integration on the CF-18 Hornet will provide full ATP capability with no aircraft modifications and no operational limitations. As evidenced by the Canadian Forces' selection, Sniper ATP provides the Canadian Forces CF-18's NATO operational and support commonality. Sniper ATPs are battle proven and operationally deployed, supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom since January 2005.

Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control will execute the program for the Canadian Forces, with support from Lockheed Martin Canada, which will provide technical assistance and services.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

Source: http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/070402/dam031.html?.v=86