The transatlantic Medium Extended Air Defence System (MEADS) programme has entered into its design and development phase, following the signing of a $3.4 billion contract on 31 May. Comprising EADS LFK of Germany, Italy's MBDA Italia and Lockheed Martin of the USA, the MEADS International joint venture will develop the new-generation air and missile defence system for European and US service from 2012 and 2017 respectively.
Source: Flight International