Hughes to Train Saudis on System

Hughes Aircraft Co.’s Ground Systems Group will play host later this year to a large contingent of Saudi Arabian military officials who will receive training on a new air defense system.

Hughes is developing “Peace Shield,” a new air defense system for the Middle Eastern nation, under a contract valued at $837 million. Company officials could not be reached Friday for comment.

Ron Cooper, deputy superintendent of the Fullerton School District, said that the Saudis will begin arriving later this year and that the school district is preparing to handle the influx of new arrivals.

“We are trying to learn more about their culture so our teachers can be prepared,” Cooper said.

Hughes contacted the district in March to be ready for the arrival of hundreds of new students, the children of the Saudi Arabian personnel.

The families are expected to arrive in shifts over the next four years. Training sessions will last about a year.