Article Posted on : - Jan 22, 2013

EMB 145 AEW&C. Photo: Embraer.

SAO PAULO (BNS): Embraer Defence and Security and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) have signed a contract to modernise five EMB 145 AEW&C.

The contract, valued at approximately $215 million, provides for the updating of electronic warfare systems, command and control systems, electronic countermeasures and air surveillance radar, Embraer said.

The contract also comprises six mission planning and analysis stations that will be employed in the training and improvement of crews.

Built on the platform of the successful ERJ 145 regional jet, the EMB 145 Airborne Early Warning and Control, designated E-99 in the FAB, is able to detect, track and identify targets in their patrol area and transmit this information to allied forces.

The aircraft can perform airspace management, fighter positioning and interception control, signals intelligence and surveillance missions.

"This upgrade will allow the Brazilian Air Force to continue operating with excellence an important part of national air defense system," said Luiz Carlos Aguiar, President of Embraer Defense and Security.

"The E-99 plays a strategic role within the FAB in the control of airspace and the surveillance of our borders," he said.