High-fidelity communications simulator will improve aircrew training efficiency

OTTAWA, ON—Canadian Forces flight crews will be better equipped to manage the challenges of in-flight communication when they begin training using a new simulation capability designed for CP-140 Aurora aircraft: Today xwave , a Division of Bell Aliant (TSX: BA.UN), announced it has been contracted by General Dynamics Canada to develop and deliver the Communications Simulation and Audio Distribution System (CSADS) for use in the training of Aurora crews. The CSADS will be integrated into the Operational Mission Simulator and Procedures Crew Trainer suite of new Aurora crew-training simulators being provided as part of the Aurora Incremental Modernization Project.

The CSADS simulator recreates the complex communications environment inside the Aurora; this includes multiple aircraft radios and intercom which, when combined with various atmospheric effects, can make communication a considerable challenge. The CSADS faithfully replicates this environment, accurately simulating the communications conditions aircrews must contend with while operating the aircraft under potentially threatening circumstances.

xwave will deliver the CSADS system in Spring 2008.

“xwave understands the complexities of aircraft communication and the vital need, for safety’s sake, to faithfully represent them during training,” said Don McClure, Regional Director, Ottawa, xwave. “The CSADS helps ensure that crews are equipped to address an array of in-flight communication challenges, so that in real-life scenarios they can effectively send and receive mission-critical information.”

xwave is a leading defence and aerospace contractor. For more than 30 years the company has specialized in land, naval, aerospace, air traffic management and information applications. Its simulation and training (S&T) group is a key simulation supplier to the military market, serving as a prime contractor and system developer on a number of simulation projects, and providing expertise that encompasses a broad range of military applications.

About xwave

xwave, a Division of Bell Aliant, is a full-service business-solutions provider that serves clients through systems integration, infrastructure services, and fulfillment. These areas offer clients a broad delivery capability: xwave plans, designs, builds and operates complete ICT solutions that meet business-process needs and are designed to deliver a tangible return on technology investments. With more than $355 million in revenues and 1,500 people, xwave is one of the largest business-solutions organizations in Canada, with locations in St. John’s, Halifax, Moncton, Saint John, Fredericton, Charlottetown, Summerside, Ottawa, Toronto, New England, Washington DC, Florida, Colorado, and Ireland. More information can be found at www.xwave.com

For more information contact:

Karen Ewing
Director, Marketing
xwave
Karen.Ewing@xwave.com
877-332-4605