Heroux-Devtek signs long term contract with Embraer on New Business Jet Program

Héroux-Devtek Inc. (TSX: HRX), a leading Canadian manufacturer of aerospace and industrial products, today announced that the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer has awarded its Landing Gear Division a contract to provide the landing gear for the new Embraer Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 business aircraft programs.

Under the terms of the agreement, Héroux-Devtek will design, develop, fabricate, assemble, test and deliver landing gear structure and actuation for the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 jets. This life-cycle mandate also includes the provision of spare parts. Design work is expected to begin very shortly.

"This contract recognizes Héroux-Devtek as an experienced and competent source for landing gear. The Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 business jets are of strategic importance for Embraer and we are very proud to have been selected for the programs," commented Martin Brassard, Vice-President and General Manager of Héroux-Devtek's Landing Gear Division. "It is a strategic breakthrough for Héroux-Devtek, as we have a new customer and we will leverage our expertise related to this type of aircraft program."

"Héroux-Devtek has built a very strong engineering team and is well positioned to support design and development programs that are in keeping with our strategy, such as the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500," stated Gilles Labbé, President and Chief Executive Officer of Héroux-Devtek. "The business jet market is experiencing vigorous growth and, through this second design contract since the beginning of our 2008-2009 fiscal year, we have rapidly built an important presence in that niche."

"Embraer welcomes Héroux-Devtek as the supplier for Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 landing gears", stated Luis Carlos Affonso, Executive Vice President, Embraer Executive Jets. The leading-edge technology offered through these revolutionary new jets must be reflected in each part of them."

The Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 business jets will be the first in their categories to offer a six-foot stand up cabin with a flat floor. Full fly-by-wire technology will enhance travel comfort and reduce pilot workload. The Legacy 500 is expected to enter service in the second half of 2012, and the Legacy 450 in the second half of 2013.