Vodafone McLaren Mercedes on top form as BAE Systems celebrates 11 years as technology partners to the Formula One powerhouse

As the formidable Formula One team gear up for the Bahrain Grand Prix – with double world champion Fernando Alonso at the helm, and celebrating first and second place at Sepang, BAE Systems continues to provide performance enhancing solutions through the very latest advances in aerodynamic performance, simulation, carbon fibre techniques, wireless sensor & control systems and fuel management.

When the partnership first began, back in 1996, it was largely focused around aerodynamic and structural capabilities. Eleven years on, BAE Systems’ Advanced Technology Centre has developed its relationship with McLaren Racing to provide precision technology which help make the cars the very best. This dynamic partnership uses computer generated models to analyse how air flows around a car in a digital wind tunnel; work that has led to radical new designs - and world-beating achievements on the race track.

Mark Simpkins, General Manager of BAE Systems in Bahrain, said:

“We’re thrilled at BAE Systems to be amongst the likes of Bridgestone and Exxon Mobil as Vodafone McLaren Mercedes technology Partners. It’s been an exciting time for us over the past decade and we are relishing the opportunity to help the team succeed throughout the 2007 season - especially here in Bahrain. Together, we have both grown to appreciate what we can learn from each other about the potential of new technologies and the rapid translation of inspired ideas into engineering reality.”

Managing Director of McLaren Racing, and former BAE Systems senior executive, Jonathan Neale, recognises the significant contribution that BAE Systems has made to its Formula One racing car during this time. Its application of advanced ink printing techniques means that sensors can be wired together using a technology known as Direct Write’. This new system can accurately monitor forces from the suspension system of the Formula One car over more than 5,000km – without the need for printed circuit boards or connecting wires: “Over the past 10 years BAE Systems’ technologies have benefited almost every aspect of our Formula 1 racing car. We’re anticipating that in time, Direct Write could make a significant difference in reducing the weight and complexity of wiring on the car, thus improving reliability and performance, and ultimately race results,” said Neale.

The 11th anniversary comes at a key time for both BAE Systems and the Kingdom of Bahrain. Formula One recently sealed its long term commitment to the country by signing with Bahrain’s International Circuit for the next five years. BAE Systems itself delivered the final batch of Hawk Jets to the Kingdom’s Royal Air Force, earlier this year. The Hawks, accompanied by a package of equipment, support and training, enables the Air Force to train its frontline pilots and also to develop an indigenous military flying and training capability.

The Bahrain Grand Prix takes place from 13-15 April at the Bahrain International Circuit, in Sakhir.