New York's Senator
CHARLES E. SCHUMER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2000

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES $35 MILLION FOR BUFFALO TECH FIRMS IN SENATE DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS BILL

Senator: Buffalo Companies Playing A Crucial Role In Military Preparedness

US Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that the Defense Appropriations Bill passed by the Senate includes funding for three projects that will benefit two Buffalo technology firms. Schumer worked with Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan to include these projects in the Senate bill.

Schumer said that the Senate approved $21.4 million to fund further development of Sierra Research's Unmanned Threat Emitter (UMTE). This Buffalo-based company manufactures an unmanned, remote control system that simulates surface-to-air missiles and anti-aircraft artillery radar. UMTE will provide Air Force pilots with realistic simulations for training in a cutting edge electronic warfare environment.

"The battlefield of the future requires specialized training and advanced simulation, and Sierra has proven that it has the technology and ability to meet those needs," Schumer said. "In an increasingly complex world, it is more important than ever to ensure that our military has the equipment it needs to protect American interests and security."

The Senate also appropriated $13.5 million for two projects at Comptek-Amherst Systems, Inc based in Western New York. The first project could receive more than $7.5 million for further development and upgrading of their Mobile Remote Emitter System (MRES). Used in the Navy's realistic training facilities for electronic warfare simulation, MRES will have the capability of simulating fast-moving fighter and attack aircraft, as well as surface ships, submarines, and other military vehicles receiving electronic signals. MRES was designed to replace the Navy's low fidelity simulators, which lack MRES' hi-fidelity capability.

Comptek-Amherst could also receive $6 million for its Integrated Demonstrations and Applications Laboratory (IDAL). The IDAL facility evaluates advanced sensor technology and equipment for use in combat systems deployed on aircraft and space vehicles.

"Like Sierra, Comptek-Amherst is using its technological expertise to protect our men and women in uniform," Schumer said. "I am going to continue my efforts to see that both the Sierra and Comptek-Amherst projects are included in the final defense appropriation that passes Congress."

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