Leonardo Teams Up with Sierra Nevada Corporation to Enhance Global ISR Capabilities
Leonardo UK Ltd. alongside its U.S.-based affiliate, Leonardo Electronics US Inc., has today formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), also based in the U.S. This collaboration aims to tackle various international defense and security sectors. The initiative is structured to harness the technological prowess of each organization while utilizing their respective strengths in identified marketplaces where they possess relevant infrastructure and experience. With over 40 branches spread across 19 U.S. states, SNC will bolster the ongoing development of Leonardo Electronics US Inc. as it enhances its engineering, assembly, and manufacturing capabilities. Concurrently, Leonardo will capitalize on its achievements in exporting airborne sensor technologies and its close relationships with clients in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific, while also utilizing SNC’s abilities to amplify value in relevant ventures.
Mark Hamilton, Managing Director of Electronics UK at Leonardo stated: “The United States represents a critical market for Leonardo, and SNC stands out as a pioneer in cutting-edge technology solutions for aerospace and defense sectors. Our collaboration thus far has yielded remarkable success, making it logical for us to further this partnership within one of our strategic domains. We eagerly anticipate partnering with SNC to deliver top-tier defense solutions and electronic capabilities across the U.S. and beyond.”
Leonardo and SNC have previously collaborated on several initiatives for both U.S. and international clients. SNC has designated Leonardo as its preferred radar provider for maritime surveillance aircraft programs. Recently, SNC opted for Leonardo to supply its Osprey 50 E-scan surveillance radar for the RAPCON-X intelligence, surveillance & reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft.
Tim Owings, Executive Vice President, Mission Solutions and Technologies at SNC articulated: “During my tenure at SNC, I have observed its remarkable expansion. From growing across the U.S. to now establishing branches in the U.K. and Germany, it has been a privilege to partake in this journey. Teaming up with Leonardo – a reliable and proven ally – to support further growth is a logical step.”
With a solid foundation of effective and transparent collaboration, the companies are directing their focus towards prospective joint ventures. This may encompass broadening their partnership concerning the RAPCON-X series of systems, as well as exploring opportunities in the electronic warfare (EW) field, leveraging products like the Leonardo SAGE Electronic Support Measure (ESM) system.
Both enterprises possess synergistic technologies and assets that can immediately enhance capabilities for military personnel. SNC is renowned for its distinctive mission applications, while Leonardo brings forth outstanding sensors that cover the electromagnetic spectrum, extending from radio frequency (RF), including radar and EW, to electro-optics (EO). Both firms have extensive expertise in integration, with Leonardo leading in advanced sensor integration research as part of its commitment to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), coupled with SNC’s proficiency in quickly engineering, integrating ISR solutions, and reconfiguring aircraft of nearly any size and shape to devise optimal mission solutions for its clients.
