Now as BAE Systems,unmanned plane maker stays here
By Nicholas Smith, Inside Tucson Business
Published on Friday, June 12, 2009
On the heels of wrapping up its sale to BAE Systems, the 52 employees of the company formerly known as Advanced Ceramics Research were told the company will keep the operation in Tucson.
BAE Systems will remain in its office at 3292 E. Hemipshere Loop near Valencia and South Palo Verde roads and become part of a worldwide workforce of more than 100,000.
The Tucson operation develops unmanned aerial vehicles.
“We’ve got wonderful sensors to put in their wonderful vehicles,” said Ted Wright, president of technology solutions and services for BAE Systems.
In March, the Maryland-based defense contractor announced it would acquire Tucson-based Advanced Ceramics Research in a $14.7 million deal that became final on June 8.
Started in 1987, Advanced Ceramics Rsearch has developed such craft as the Silver Fox, which can be used for aerial surveillance, and the Coyote, which can carry optical or infrared sensors and be launched out of a tube.
Merging BAE Systems with Advanced Ceramics Research will help BAE move into more civilian aspects of robot aircraft.
“These tactical systems are really gaining favor as far as their applications,” said Mark Angier, who has been president of Advanced Ceramics Research and will remain in his leadership position for BAE Systems.
Possible civilian uses for the vehicles include border patrol surveillance, pollution monitoring and even looking for lost dogs.
Contact reporter Nicholas Smith at nsmith@azbiz.com or (520) 295-4238.
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