August 5, 2005: Measurement Systems Inc (Ultra MSI), a subsidiary of Ultra Electronics Holdings plc and a leading designer and manufacturer of human machine interface controls, has been awarded a contract by Lockheed Martin Systems Integration, Owego, NY to manufacture custom hand controls that will operate its Airborne Mine Neutralization System (AMNS).

Lockheed Martin has a Navy contract to provide AMNS systems for implementation on MH-60S helicopters. As an expendable mine neutralization system, the Lockheed Martin AMNS is controlled from a host platform and includes an underwater vehicle that hunts and kills both proud and moored mines.

In this application, the unmanned underwater vehicle is controlled by an operator using the custom control developed by Ultra MSI. The three axis hand controller allows the user to direct the vehicle with high precision and accuracy. The vehicle is able to meet high degrees of operator-controlled maneuverability, including hovering, acquisition, homing, and classification. The vehicle’s control and guidance system includes attitude, heading, depth and altitude sensors. It has a video camera and headlight for visual identification. Using Ultra MSI’s controller, the operator can select the method of warhead detonation.

Ultra MSI 3-Axis Hand Control for AMNS

Ultra MSI, located in Fairfield, CT, is the leader in Human Machine Interface (HMI) solutions, including controls/grips, industrial joysticks and trackball technology. With the broadest line of products and accessories in the industry, and a proven track record of solving customer problems, Ultra MSI is recognized as one of the foremost designers and manufacturers of positioning and tracking controls for both military and commercial applications.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2004 sales of $35.5 billion.