MacDonald , Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (“MDA” or the “Company”) (TSX:MDA), a global communications and information company, today announced that it has signed a contract with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). MDA will provide additional grapple fixtures, which provide a critical interface between the JEM Robotic Manipulator System (JEMRMS) and mission support equipment of the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). JEM is a human-rated space facility designed and developed for conducting scientific research activities on the International Space Station (ISS), and uses the JEMRMS to support its experiments and maintenance tasks.
The grapple fixtures are specially adapted to work with the JEMRMS and some of the payloads it handles, both mechanically and electrically. With Japan’s commitment to extend its participation in the ISS program until 2024, these new grapple fixtures will support further JEM operations such as JAXA’s innovative Small Satellite Orbital Deployer for launching cubesats from the ISS.
About MDA
MDA is a global communications and information company providing operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide.
MDA’s business is focused on markets and customers with strong repeat business potential, primarily in the Communications sector and the Surveillance and Intelligence sector. In addition, the Company conducts a significant amount of advanced technology development.
MDA’s established global customer base is served by more than 4,800 employees operating from 11 locations in the United States , Canada , and internationally.
The Company’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “MDA.”
