MCKINNEY, Texas, Feb. 14, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) has received two U.S. Army orders totaling $17.2 million for 18 common sensor payloads as system design and development continues.

The orders are part of an indefinite delivery-indefinite quantity contract let in November 2007 with options up to $1.2 billion.

"We are still relatively early in the Army Common Sensor Payload program. However, our broad core market strength and experience in building electro- optical infrared systems are proving to be distinct advantages as we move forward," said Tim Carey, vice president for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance at Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems. "SAS is developing a robust advanced sensor for the soldier and Army air-ground team that will provide tactical reconnaissance, surveillance, and mission support in target acquisition."

An important advantage in this program is the integration experience of Raytheon as the prime sensor payload provider for the Army's Extended Range Multi-Purpose unmanned aerial system. The company has delivered 10 AN/DAS-2 sensors.

The common sensor payload, which will eventually equip ERMP and other Army unmanned and manned aircraft, calls for design and development, testing and air vehicle integration of a variant of Raytheon's multi-spectral targeting system. Follow-up production of the payload in McKinney could reach 875 units.

Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems is a leading provider of sensor systems giving military forces the most accurate and timely actionable intelligence available for the network-centric battlefield. With 2007 revenues of $4.3 billion and 12,000 employees, SAS is headquartered in El Segundo, Calif. Additional facilities are in Goleta and San Diego, Calif.; Forest, Miss.; Dallas, McKinney and Plano, Texas; and several international locations.

Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning more than 85 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.

Note to Editors:

The initial contract award for this program was announced by the Department of Defense Nov. 7, 2007.

Raytheon announced in a Nov. 12, 2007, news release that it had been selected to provide a common sensor payload for manned and unmanned aircraft.

  Contact:
  Dave Desilets
  972.952.2239

SOURCE: Raytheon Company

CONTACT: Dave Desilets of Raytheon Company, +1-972-952-2239

Web site: http://www.raytheon.com/