Parsons Delivers First RADBO System to U.S. Air Force

Rhea-AI Summary

Parsons Corporation (NYSE: PSN) announced the delivery of 13 Recovery of Airbase Denied by Ordnance (RADBO) systems and three ZEUS^® laser neutralization systems to the U.S. Air Force, marking the first rollout from a $51 million contract awarded in 2020. This directed energy weapon system has undergone successful testing and deployment in Iraq and Afghanistan. Designed to enhance safety and efficiency, RADBO allows explosive ordnance personnel to neutralize threats from a safe distance of over 300 meters. The system's scalability and advanced capabilities are set to transform military operations in explosive ordnance disposal.

Positive

• Delivery of 13 RADBO systems enhances operational capabilities.
• First ground-based directed energy weapon approved for production.
• Supports U.S. Air Force’s operational imperatives, improving safety for personnel.

Negative

• None.

CENTREVILLE, Va., April 05, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Parsons Corporation (NYSE: PSN) is rolling out the first delivery of 13 total Recovery of Airbase Denied by Ordnance (RADBO) systems, plus an additional three ZEUS^® laser neutralization systems, to the U.S. Air Force. The delivery is part of the company’s 6-year, $51 million contract awarded in 2020.

The technology is the first ground-based directed energy weapon system to be approved for production and has been successfully deployed and tested in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“RADBO, armed with ZEUS^®, is a paradigm shift in explosive ordnance disposal technology that allows for precision threat neutralization at the speed of light,” said James Lackey, senior vice president, Mission Solutions for Parsons. “The out-of-the-box solutioning employed by Parsons to deliver mission-focused solutions that improve the safety of our nation’s warfighters speaks to our core values of safety, quality, and innovation.”

Delivering direct support capability to the Air Force Resilient Basing Operational Imperative, RADBO is comprised of three main components; a mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicle, Parsons’ developed ZEUS^® directed energy system, and an interrogation arm assembly. Together, the system provides Air Force explosive ordnance personnel improved safety by allowing destruction of unexploded ordnance from the interior of the MRAP at distances that can exceed 300 meters in optimal conditions.

Initially a Parsons’ protype that leverages more than 25 years of experience in directed energy ordnance neutralization, the ZEUS^® fiber laser is now powerful enough to detonate small submunitions from cluster bombs, land mines, general purposed bombs, and thick-cased artillery rounds.

The agile unit can also be used for post-combat applications, including humanitarian clearing of landmines, route and airbase clearing, and counter IED work, including the ability to cut through vehicle doors, guardrails, concrete, metal containers, and wires.

Leading a shift in operational tactics and technology for the military’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal community, the U.S. Air Force’s RADBO program offers tactical and lifesaving advantages for the warfighter, improving rapid asset recovery, reducing operational costs, and strengthening force capability and portability.

As the battlefield continues to evolve, the scalability of ZEUS^® will conform to a variety of vehicles, transforming the battlespace by delivering reliable and cost-effective directed energy technology in permissive through highly contested environments.

To learn more about Parsons’ ZEUS^® laser neutralization system, please visit parsons.com/products/zeus.

About Parsons:
Parsons (NYSE: PSN) is a leading disruptive technology provider in the national security and global infrastructure markets, with capabilities across cyber and intelligence, space and missile defense, transportation, environmental remediation, urban development, and critical infrastructure protection. Please visit Parsons.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to learn how we're making an impact.

Media Contact:
Angie Benfield
+1 803.334.5277
Angie.Benfield@parsons.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dave Spille
+ 1 703.775.6191
Dave.Spille@Parsons.com

FAQ

What is the significance of Parsons' recent delivery of RADBO systems to the U.S. Air Force?

The delivery enhances operational capabilities for explosive ordnance disposal, providing improved safety and efficiency.

What does the RADBO system include?

RADBO comprises a mine resistant ambush protected vehicle, ZEUS^® directed energy system, and an interrogation arm assembly.

What is the contract value for Parsons' RADBO systems delivery?

The delivery is part of a six-year contract worth $51 million awarded in 2020.

How far can the RADBO system neutralize threats?

The RADBO system can neutralize threats from distances exceeding 300 meters under optimal conditions.

What is the ZEUS^® system used for?

The ZEUS^® system is used for neutralizing unexploded ordnance and has applications in humanitarian efforts and counter-IED operations.