LynxOS to run CRUSADER weapons system's ballistics, graphic display, and equipment control functions

SAN JOSÉ, Calif.—March 9, 1998—Lynx Real-Time Systems, Inc., a leader in embedded software solutions, today announced it has been awarded a long-term contract to provide the real-time operating system for the US Army's CRUSADER Field Artillery System. The Crusader, a two-vehicle system consisting of a fully automated 155mm self-propelled howitzer and resupply vehicle, is the US Army's lead modernization program and is a significant technology carrier for future ground combat systems.

Lynx President Bill Hogan admires Crusader vehicle

According to United Defense LP, the primary contractor and systems integrator for the Crusader program, Lynx was selected for its capabilities to provide rapid, quality software development and long-term support for the Crusader program. Lynx was also chosen because its LynxOS® embedded operating system currently supports the microprocessors and specialty boards that run the Crusader, eliminating the time required to port the OS to new hardware. The Lynx operating system will support the required onboard processing for functions such as the Crusader's ballistic calculations, Graphical User Interface and real-time equipment control systems.

"We are pleased to welcome Lynx to the Crusader team," said David Wallestad, Program Director, Team Crusader, at United Defense LP. "We look forward to a continuing, productive relationship with the Lynx management team and employees."

"LynxOS is gaining significant momentum within the DOD market, particularly with high profile programs, such as Crusader, that represent the next-generation capabilities required by the various branches of the military," said Bill Hogan, President and Chief Operating Officer at Lynx Real-Time Systems. "Our unique Reliable Processing Environment, which provides for a highly reliable and highly available system, as well as POSIX® compatibility, hard real-time performance, and scalability from small to large systems—all position Lynx strongly as a complete embedded systems solution provider for the military and aerospace industries."

About the CRUSADER

The Crusader represents a major advance in ground combat vehicle development and in Cannon Field Artillery. It is a fully automated system and completely removes the crew from the manual demanding tasks that inhibit rapid firing and maneuver necessary on the 21st-century battlefield. Crusader brings significant increases in rate of fire and speed of movement and, for the first time in a ground combat system, will embed integrated decision aids, and combat information and firing solutions so the crews can operate at extremely high tempos. Crusader will be fielded in 2005 and the Army expects to eventually buy over 800 systems.

About Lynx Real-Time Systems

Lynx Real-Time Systems, Inc. is a worldwide supplier of real-time operating systems and development tools. Its products shorten product development cycles and lower costs for software engineers who design embedded applications. By committing to POSIX®, UNIX® and other industry standards, the company enables customers to leverage their investments in software development and education. Founded in 1988 as a privately held company, Lynx has offices in the U.S., Europe and Japan, and worldwide headquarters in San José, Calif.

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