Ascom receives order from Swiss Army for the SE-240 tactical short-wave radio communication system

As part of its 2005 armaments programme, armasuisse – the Procurement and Technology Centre of the Swiss Department for Defence, Civil Protection and Sports – has commissioned Ascom Security Solutions to deliver the SE-240 tactical short-wave radio communication system. This contract, worth more than CHF 30 million, confirms Ascom's competence as a provider of complex integrated communication solutions.

The SE-240 project is for delivery of a radio communication system which works on short wave (HF), thus providing coverage throughout Switzerland without any additional infrastructure. This provides troops with an efficient, contemporary communication system for large-distance field operations. Proven components and standardised interfaces between the subsystems ensure the reliable, secure transfer of data and voice.

As general contractor, Ascom is responsible for implementation of the entire radio communication system. And as system integrator, project manager and equipment provider, Ascom is also the single point of contact for radio equipment manufacturer Thales as well as subcontractors and the customer, armasuisse. Project implementation will continue until 2008.

"This extremely important order for Ascom confirms our competence in the integration of complex communication solutions," says Ascom CEO Rudolf Hadorn.

The SE-240 tactical radio communication system was included in the Swiss Army's 2005 armaments programme due to its good results in field trials and technical tests, and was approved by parliament in mid-December. It will replace radio communications which have been in use for many years.

About Ascom
Ascom is an international solution provider with comprehensive technological know-how. In future the company aims to concentrate on the core areas of Wireless Solutions (high-value, customer-specific on-site communications solutions) and Security Solutions (applications for security, communication, automation and control systems for infrastructure operators, public security institutions and the army).

The Special Products Division covers the activities of Network Integration (network solutions for the data/voice convergence market) in Italy and Payphones (specialised products for voice traffic).

With a wealth of experience in implementing complex projects for discerning customers, Ascom has established itself in important key markets. Offerings range from analysis and consulting to system design and system integration, project management, engineering and implementation, right through to maintenance and support. The company has subsidiaries in 17 countries and a workforce of some 2’700 employees worldwide. Ascom registered shares (symbol ASCN) are listed on the SWX Swiss Exchange in Zurich.

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