Messier-Bugatti-Dowty (Safran group) announced today that it has signed a contract with Eurocopter as a single-source supplier of wheels and brakes for the new-generation X4 helicopter.

Messier-Bugatti-Dowty will provide the two nose wheels, two main wheels and two electric brakes, as well as several other products: the electronic brake controller (EBC), developed and produced by Safran Electronics Canada, and four brake pedal transmitter units (BPTU).

Alain Sauret, Chairman and CEO of Messier-Bugatti-Dowty, said, "We are delighted expand our partnership with Eurocopter. The X4 will benefit from our advanced electric brake technology, along with the latest generation of composite friction materials."

Messier-Bugatti-Dowty electric brakes are designed to reduce weight, while retaining excellent friction properties and offering the simplified maintenance needed to meet Eurocopter's in service performance objectives for this new-generation rotorcraft.

Messier-Bugatti-Dowty is already partner to Eurocopter on a number of leading programs, including the Superpuma, Dolphin and Tiger.