VERGENNES — Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) has announced a new $6,723,732 Defense Department contract with UTC Aerospace Systems based in Vergennes to develop and test improved guidance systems for U.S. munitions, which would allow greater precision and avoid damage to innocent bystanders and property.
The contract with the Defense Ordnance Technology Consortium (DOTC) is for developing and testing of low-cost Guidance, Navigation, Control and Targeting (GNC&T) systems for precision munitions, which was developed at the Vergennes facility. DOTC will fund UTC Aerospace Systems to refine and test technology that focuses on the needs generated in today’s modern conflicts where targets are small, mobile, operate in all conditions, and often are dispersed within civilian populations.
The goal is a highly accurate, maneuverable, responsive and scaled weapon system that is capable of identifying, tracking and targeting moving targets. UTC Aerospace Systems’ low-cost precision GNC&T systems are specifically developed to address these requirements by engaging identified targets when friendly forces are in close contact, or when other people or property may be nearby.
Leahy, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee’s Defense Subcommittee, which handles the Senate’s work in writing the annual Defense Department budget bill, is a longtime supporter of UTC Aerospace Systems’ work in Vergennes.
“We are proud of the unique defense work done by Vermonters to support our troops and their missions,” Leahy said. “The vital work done at the Vergennes facility provides them with game-changing capabilities that reduce casualties to non-combatants, while protecting the lives of our sons and daughters who go in harm’s way.”
Hugh Dunkley, site manager of UTC Aerospace Systems Sensors and Integrated Systems in Vergennes, said, “This award demonstrates the value of the innovative technology being developed right here in Vermont. We thank Senator Leahy for his ongoing support and look forward to future opportunities to support our U.S. and allied warfighter.”