Following up on our coverage of BAE this week, I wanted to let you know that StockerYale has received a $2.1 million production order from BAE Systems to supply BAE with lasers for the Advanced Threat Infrared Countermeasure (ATIRCM) system. BAE’s ATIRCM system is a laser-based infrared countermeasures system that protects aircraft against widely deployed heat-seeking missiles. Production is expected to begin in the first quarter of fiscal 2009.

BAE’s $2.1 million order follows a series of development contracts to StockerYale that began in October 2002 for the development of BAE’s countermeasure systems. StockerYale worked closely with BAE’s engineers to develop a laser that met ATIRCM’s specifications.

“We are very proud to have been chosen by BAE Systems as a key partner to their next-generation countermeasure program via this production order,” stated Mark W. Blodgett, Chairman and CEO of StockerYale, Inc. “This contract award underscores our technological leadership in laser systems and highlights the reputation we have cultivated over the years in developing and delivering customized lasers to BAE.”

Stated Michael A. Pepin, Deputy General Manager Survivability and Protection Systems at BAE Systems, “StockerYale’s reference laser offers us solution combined with the engineering and customization skills necessary to meet the requirements of our ATIRCM project. We look forward to a continued and mutually beneficial relationship with StockerYale.”