Beaver Aerospace & Defense part of team providing aircraft, training & support for U.S. Air Force Light Air Support mission

Beaver Aerospace & Defense, Inc., a subsidiary of Phillips Service Industries (PSI) and global leader in the design and manufacturing of custom and broad-range actuation technologies, today announced that it is part of the supplier network tapped by the U.S. Air Force under its recently awarded Light Air Support (LAS) contract. On February 28, 2013, the U.S. Air Force announced the selection of Sierra Nevada Corporation to supply aircraft for use by the Afghanistan National Army Air Corps and other future customers. The aircraft that will be provided is the Embraer A-29 Super Tucano. The aircraft will be used for conducting flight training, aerial reconnaissance and light air support operations and is a key element of U.S. government partner-building efforts in Afghanistan and other partner nations.

Under terms of the contract, Beaver will supply three trim actuators (elevator, rudder and aileron) for the A-29 Super Tucano. Built to withstand rigorous applications and demanding environments, Beaver's electromechanical actuators (EMAs) are known throughout the industry for their impeccable quality, precision and performance.

“Everyone at Beaver Aerospace & Defense is proud to be part of the team selected by the U.S. Air Force for this important mission,” said Ben Kearns, General Manager of Beaver Aerospace & Defense.

Additionally, Beaver provides award-winning ball screws, ball splines and gears, which can fit virtually any application. As a certified FAA Repair Station, Beaver also offers expert repair, overhaul and testing services for all electromechanical actuators and ball screws.

The A-29 Super Tucano will be built in Jacksonville, FL by U.S. workers and with parts supplied by U.S. companies. Over 88 percent of the Super Tucano is made from parts supplied by U.S. companies, like Beaver Aerospace & Defense, or countries that qualify under the Buy America Act. Aircraft training will be provided in Clovis, NM. Beaver is among more than 100 U.S. suppliers in 20 states that will provide parts or services for the LAS program. At least 1,200 U.S. jobs will be supported through this contract.