SemiConductor Devices (SCD), a joint venture of defense companies Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT; TASE: ESLT) and Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd., has been awarded a contract by the US Department of Defense's research arm, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). SCD announced the receipt of a phase I contract from DARPA, valued at $1.75 million, for the development of a new "XBn" infrared detector technology.
If all phases of the development program are completed, the total value of the funding could be up to $5 million.
SCD CEO Baruch Glick said, "We see this direct contract between an Israeli company and DARPA as a recognition by DARPA in the capabilities of SCD to perform a challenging project that eventually will fit into the high end infrared systems."
Rafael and Elbit each own 50% of SCD, which is located in the Leshem industrial park. SCD develops and produces cooled and uncooled infrared detectors and laser diodes. Its products are used in infrared seekers, thermal imagers, smart munitions, night navigation systems, laser rangefinders, and laser designators.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 13, 2008
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