IBM wins IPTN contract

JAKARTA (JP): State aircraft manufacturer PT Industri Pesawat Terbang Nusantara (IPTN) has signed a series of contracts with IBM to supply additional workstations and software to support the N-2130, the country's first passenger jet project.

IBM said Saturday that they would supply RISC System/6000 workstations and CATIA software.

"The RS/6000 contract is to supply additional workstation requirements until mid 1998," the statement says.

According to IPTN, the use of CATIA will significantly improve the company's competitive position as it will enhance its ability to design and construct its twin-jet 130-seater airplane.

"Based on our experience, this system will play an important role in helping IPTNs competitive position in the aerospace market. Our relationship with IBM since 1984 has been a beneficial one," executive-vice president of IPTNs Airline Business Unit, Ilham Habibie, said.

IPTN has previously used CATIA software in the design and construction phases of its CN-235 and N-250 aircraft projects. (gis)