Fareham: Barnbrook Systems secures six-figure deal with aerospace giant
Fareham-based Barnbrook Systems, which won the Technical Innovation of the Year title at the 2015 Solent Business Awards, secured a six-figure deal for its innovative inflight-refuelling technology at Farnborough International Airshow. Its cutting-edge fuel switch will be supplied to Leonardo-Finmeccanica, the international aerospace, defence and security giant, for its class-leading Agusta Westland AW101 helicopter.
The AW101 has been hailed by Leonardo-Finmeccanica as the “ultimate platform” for multi-mission search-and-rescue operations in conflict and peacetime and has exceptional multi-mission capabilities. Barnbrook’s intelligent-sensing technology will monitor air pressure in its fuel systems to minimise discharges through air vents, maximising efficiency, enhancing safety, delivering cost savings and heightening aircraft performance.
The contract reinforces Barnbrook’s position on the international stage and helps secure and create jobs as the 40-strong business looks forward with confidence to a post-Brexit world. It comes at the time of a ministry of defence drive to make it easier for SMEs to work with the defence sector.
Tony Barnett, Barnbrook Systems managing director, said: “This contract demonstrates that an innovative SME with a track record for technological excellence can work closely with a prime of the calibre of Leonardo-Finmeccanica to deliver market-leading solutions.”
Andrew Barnett, Barnbrook Systems chief technology officer, added: “Our intelligent fuel switch has the power to transform rotary wing inflight refuelling. It is developed from our sophisticated remote-sensing BlueCube technology.”
Sir Brian Burridge, senior vice-president UK of Leonardo-Finmeccanica, said: “Barnbrook Systems has the vision, capabilities and excellence to succeed at the highest level.
