LONDON — Defence and aerospace giant EADS is creating 100 jobs at its UK Defence and Security headquarters in Newport, Wales, the company said as it opened a new wing to its technology centre at the facility.
The Duke of York, who is the UK's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment officially opened the new wing on a visit to Wales.
The £35 million investment will enable the company's scientists and engineers to conduct research projects into areas such as secure IT, communications and cryptology.
The centre consolidates the areospace-to defence conglomerate's long presence in South Wales, now employing over 1000 people developing and making secure communications solutions for armed forces and government. The company plans strong growth over the next few years, from both the civil sector as well as the more traditional MOD defence activities.
Located at the same site and part of a global network, is a research and technology facility of the EADS group, EADS Innovation Works. The facility focuses on advanced and secure communications technologies, simulation of complex structures and systems, software and systems engineering, sensors, electronics and systems integration.
During the day, EADS held a demonstration of some of the development work being undertaken at the Newport facility.
Among the projects on show was:
* a system to detect bacteria and single-cell organisms in drinking water, which achieves a complete diagnosis in around 15 minutes rather than the 1 to 2 days required by conventional laboratory analysis;
* a project to improve the well being of airline passengers by enabling them to do light physical exercise over a short period of time. A stepper, gym-bars, a massage pad and fresh-air nozzles allow passengers to relax and enhance blood circulation;
* a system for handling of passengers and baggage and providing them with information, guidance and support. RFID technology is used to keep track of passengers' whereabouts;
* and a boarding card reader incorporating an "artificial nose".
