BAE System's third-generation Common Missile Warning Systems are being procured by Britain's Ministry of Defense for use on its helicopters.

The contract is the first direct commercial sale off the third-generation CMWS system and carries a value of $28 million.

"Our Common Missile Warning System has a long track record of success with more than 2 million combat hours," said Bill Staib, BAE's director of Threat Management Solutions. "Our engineers have now enhanced the system with third-generation technology, integrating hostile fire indication, missile warning, and data recording capabilities into a single unit.

"Through this purchase, the U.K. pilots will have enhanced detection of small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades, improving their safety and mission effectiveness."

The MOD award to BAE Systems also includes user data modules that enable user-defined parameter changes to customize aircraft installations as well as supporting data and services. The new systems will replace some previously purchased Gen2 CMWS units and also outfit new aircraft.

BAE said among the aircraft that will receive the system will be Apache, Chinook, Wildcat, and Merlin aircraft.

"The award of this contract for Common Missile Warning Systems to BAE Systems will ensure our Armed Forces continue to have the state-of-the-art equipment they need to protect our aircraft and helicopters," said Philip Dunne, Minister for Defense Equipment Support and Technology.