Shorts Missile Systems (SMS) has opened its Multiple Ordnance Assembly and Test facility. The factory will carry out final assembly of the company's Starburst and Starstreak short-range air defence missile systems, and caters for flexible manufacturing of a range of missiles, utilising advanced assembly techniques.
As a direct result, SMS was awarded the contract to assemble and test Hellfire II and Longbow missiles for the UK attack helicopter programme. Raytheon plans to use the facility for assembly of long-range air-to-air missiles if it wins the UK Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile competition.
Source: Flight International