The Ruag technology group has signed a deal with the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) for joint projects including the Eurofighter programme.
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The Bern-based concern, active in the aerospace and defence sectors, said it and EADS would cooperate in various areas and the total volume could amount to more than a billion francs.
Ruag’s work on the Eurofighter aircraft will involve maintenance and repair work in addition to development and assembly.
Lukas Braunschweiler, head of Ruag, said that even if Switzerland didn’t acquire any Eurofighters, the strategic partnership would continue. EADS is Ruag’s second-largest customer after the Swiss defence ministry, which accounts for 36 per cent of total sales.
Sales in 2009 at Ruag, which is wholly owned by the Swiss government, totalled SFr1.7 billion, up 10.3 per cent over the previous year.
As a technology partner to the Swiss army, Ruag says it contributes significantly to Switzerland’s security and independence.
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