That leaves Boeing as the only announced bidder, making it the likely winner of the $35 billion contract to build aerial refueling planes for the Air Force.

Northrop complained that the government’s requirements favored the smaller plane that Boeing planned to offer. Northrop’s executives also have questioned whether the contract would be profitable enough given the Pentagon’s insistence on setting a final price before the design and testing were completed.

In a statement, Northrop CEO Wesley G. Bush said, “We agree that the fundamental military requirements for the new tanker have not changed since the last competition, but the (Defense) Department’s new evaluation methodology now clearly favors the smaller tanker.”

The Pentagon defended the program as fair and said both companies could compete effectively. Defense Department spokesman Bryan Whitman said the program would not be reworked just to ensure a competition.

Northrop’s decision marks yet another controversial moment in the long-running effort to replace a fleet of tankers dating to the Eisenhower administration. It also raises questions about President Barack Obama’s plan to foster more competition and shift more of the responsibility for covering cost increases to military contractors.

Military analysts said Boeing could charge a higher price if it ends up being the only bidder.

Boeing is based in Chicago, but its Defense, Space & Security division is based in St. Louis and is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide. Boeing projects 50,000 jobs would be dedicated to the tanker. The planes would be built in Washington state and Wichita, Kan.

Following Northrop’s announcement, Boeing said in a statement that it “remains 100 percent focused” on the tanker competition and intends to “submit a fully responsive, transparent and competitive” proposal.

“The Boeing NewGen tanker will be safe and survivable in combat, will save the American taxpayer $10 billion in fuel costs over its 40-year life, and is American-designed and built,” the statement read.

Democratic Rep. Norm Dicks of Washington state, where Boeing plans to build its tankers, echoed the “American” theme, saying, “This will be an American company with American workers.”

Dicks is chairman of the House subcommittee that controls the Pentagon’s budget. He was named to the chairmanship Thursday.

Northrop based its bid on forming a partnership with the European company that makes Airbus planes, the European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company. EADS could bid by itself, but that seems unlikely.

“EADS doesn’t have the time to put together a proposal in the absence of Northrop” and may not qualify to bid by itself, said Loren Thompson, a defense industry analyst at Lexington Institute in Arlington, Va.

EADS seemed to understand from the start that it needed an American partner to acquire the political backing needed to outmaneuver Boeing.

That was seen in the reaction Monday of political leaders in Alabama, where Northrop would have assembled the planes and created thousands of new jobs.

Alabama Gov. Bob Riley said the Pentagon made it “impossible” for Northrop to compete.

Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., said: “The Air Force had a chance to deliver the most capable tanker possible to our war fighters and blew it. Once again, politics trumps the needs of our military.”

Ken Leiser of the Post-Dispatch, along with the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Associated Press and Bloomberg News, contributed to this report.

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The next-generation navigation spacecraft will now undergo final preparations for launch.

Space Vehicle 1 (SV-1), the first of 12 GPS IIF satellites for the U.S. Air Force, will lift off on a United Launch Alliance Delta IV vehicle later this year.

The GPS IIF system will bring enhanced performance to the GPS constellation by providing twice the navigational accuracy of heritage satellites, more robust signals for commercial aviation and search-and-rescue, and greater resistance to jamming in hostile environments.

“Since the first GPS satellite was launched in 1978, this successful program has demonstrated the value of space assets,” said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems.

“The GPS IIF system will afford major performance improvements over the legacy satellites and will sustain and dramatically improve the GPS constellation for civil, commercial and defense users alike.”

To prepare for the launch of SV-1, the SV-2 spacecraft in September successfully completed a consolidated system test – a set of one-time, system-level design verification and validation tests involving the space vehicle, the ground-based control segment, and user equipment.

In addition, GPS master control stations successfully commanded the space vehicle as they will do when the satellite is in operational orbit. SV-2 was also used as a “pathfinder” to validate transportation equipment and processes, as well as launch-site test procedures and equipment.

GPS is a space-based, worldwide navigation system providing users with highly accurate, three-dimensional position, navigation and timing information 24 hours a day in all weather conditions.

GPS IIF is the product of Boeing’s experience with 39 successful satellites from the GPS Block I and Block II/IIA missions and more than 30 years of teamwork with the Air Force. GPS IIF will form the core of the GPS constellation for many years to come.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space and Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Bob Pickard, 310-364-6125
Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems
robert.pickard3@boeing.com

Angie Yoshimura, 310-364-6708
Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems
angie.e.yoshimura@boeing.com

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This experiment marks the first time a laser weapon has engaged and destroyed an in-flight ballistic missile, and the first time that any system has accomplished it in the missile’s boost phase of flight. ALTB has the highest-energy laser ever fired from an aircraft, and is the most powerful mobile laser device in the world.

“The Airborne Laser Testbed team has made history with this experiment,” said Greg Hyslop, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems.

“Through its hard work and technical ingenuity, the government-industry team has produced a breakthrough with incredible potential. We look forward to conducting additional research and development to explore what this unique directed-energy system can do.”

During the experiment, the aircraft, a modified Boeing 747-400F, took off from Edwards Air Force Base and focused its high-energy laser at the missile target during its boost phase as the aircraft flew over the Western Sea Range off the coast of California.

“We’ve been saying for some time that the Airborne Laser Testbed would be a pathfinder for directed energy and would expand options for policymakers and warfighters,” said Michael Rinn, Boeing vice president and ALTB program director.

“With this successful experiment, the Airborne Laser Testbed has blazed a path for a new generation of high-energy, ultra-precision weaponry. ALTB technology and future directed-energy platforms will transform how the United States defends itself and its friends and allies. Having the capability to precisely project force, in a measured way, at the speed of light, will save lives.”

MDA officially recognized directed energy’s warfare-changing potential last March, when it awarded its Technology Pioneer Award to three Boeing Airborne Laser Testbed engineers and three of their government and industry teammates for advancing key ALTB technologies.

Boeing is the prime contractor for the Airborne Laser Testbed, which is designed to provide unprecedented speed-of-light capability to intercept all classes of ballistic missiles in their boost phase of flight.

Northrop Grumman designed and built ALTB’s high-energy laser, and Lockheed Martin developed the beam control/fire control system. Boeing provided the aircraft, the battle management system and overall systems integration and testing.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Marc Selinger, 703-872-4240
Boeing Missile Defense Systems
marc.selinger@boeing.com

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The MTC at Langley is the first of four F-22 training centers that Boeing will link to the network over the next three years.

The Air Force’s Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) configuration enables MTC sites to connect with one another via the DMON, increasing the scale and improving the accuracy of training operations.

Connecting the four-seat F-22 MTC flight trainer to the DMON also provides F-22 pilots with more realistic training with other Air Force assets on the network, such as the F-15C MTC.

“Boeing’s F-22 MTC was the first trainer in the industry to achieve ‘first-pass success’ on its initial DMON testing,” said Mark McGraw, Boeing vice president of Training Systems and Services.

This MTC was also the first to use the Agile Software Development process, which is based on industry and Boeing best practices for efficient software development.

This process allowed the functionality of the trainer’s components to be assessed much faster than with traditional software development methods.

Boeing is on contract to deliver three new F-22 MTCs for Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska; Holloman Air Force Base, N.M.; and Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Alison Sheridan, 314-232-8187
Boeing Media Relations
alison.sheridan@boeing.com

Boeing connects first F-22 mission training center to US Air Force network | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The third flight test airplane, ZA003, has a partial interior that provides a glimpse into the new flying experience the airplane will offer.

Configured for flight-testing purposes, the interior includes instrumentation racks, flight-test equipment and workstations for engineers.

“This airplane is specifically configured to test the passenger experience elements of the airplane,” said Tom Galantowicz, director of 787 Interiors, Commercial Airplanes.

“Our engineers and flight-test team use a disciplined process to certify the various elements of the interior and conduct airplane-level verifications.”

The interior includes 135 seats, multiple lavatories and two crew rests. Certifying the interior components involves analyses and testing of the lighting, lavatories, stowage bins, dimmable windows and galleys.

Passengers will be welcomed onto the 787 by sweeping arches, dynamic lighting, larger lavatories, more spacious luggage bins and electronic window shades whose transparency they can change during flight.

“Our team is making great progress and is looking forward to getting this airplane in the air later this month,” Galantowicz added.

Flight testing will continue in the months ahead. Delivery of the first 787 to launch customer ANA (All Nippon Airways) of Japan is planned for the fourth quarter of this year.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Scott Lefeber, +1 425-266-5824
787 Communications
scott.s.lefeber@boeing.com

More information: boeing.com/commercial/787family.

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Boeing has delivered five 737-800s to Garuda Indonesia, which has 20 more on order.

“Garuda’s presence at the Singapore Airshow is a statement of its commitment to leadership, reinforcing its position as a major carrier in Asia,” said Rob Laird, vice president of Sales for East & Southeast Asia, Commercial Airplanes.

“Garuda’s 737 on display also reinforces Garuda’s focus on efficiency and reliability and is a proud symbol of the close partnership between Boeing and Garuda.”

Garuda Indonesia President and CEO Emirsyah Satar added, “Garuda Indonesia has an aggressive fleet expansion plan which is part of the airline’s ‘quantum leap’ transformation strategy. This includes a near doubling of the fleet from 67 airplanes to 116.

The 737-800 will support these expansion plans as we add new domestic routes and increase frequencies on regional services.”

Nearly 120 customers around the world have ordered more than 5,000 Next-Generation 737s.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Linda Lee, +1 206-766-2905
International Communications
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
linda.a.lee@boeing.com

Web site: http://www.boeing.com/

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“This upgrade — the largest ever for French AWACS — will provide the fleet with more actionable information and better situational awareness,” said Steve Swanz, French AWACS program manager for Boeing.

“New mission computers also will reduce the mission operator’s workload, allowing more time to be spent managing the battlespace.”

The French AWACS Mid-Life Upgrade is based on the U.S. AWACS Block 40/45 system, which dramatically enhances the potential for network-enabled operations; increases mission execution capability, reliability and effectiveness; and reduces life-cycle costs.

The upgrade will include:

• A primary AWACS display, which increases situational awareness through its intuitive interface and detailed map database
• Upgraded Identification Friend or Foe Interrogation, including Mode S and Mode 5 capability
• An increase in the number of mission consoles aboard each aircraft, from 10 to 14
• Modern mission computing processing, which enables improved AWACS mission performance through the use of advanced battle management tools such as Automatic Air Tasking Orders and Airspace Coordination Order updates, resource and sensor management, and automated decision aids
• Improved combat identification capabilities from integrated sensor and off-board datalinks
• The Multi-Source Integration process, which automatically integrates data from on- and off-board sources such as radar, Electronic Support Measures and Link 16, to provide significantly improved tracking capabilities
• Digital radio control and management through the new mission computing subsystem
• An open system architecture that enables rapid software upgrades and requires less hardware.

Air France Industries will begin installing the enhancements at its Le Bourget Airport facility near Paris in 2012. The entire fleet is scheduled to complete this upgrade in the third quarter of 2015.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Dave Sloan, +1 253-657-8008
Boeing Defense, Space & Security
david.a.sloan@boeing.com

Chantal Dorange, +34 91-426-4504
Boeing Communications – Europe
chantal.dorange@boeing.com

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Test set up is expected to begin immediately, with tests commencing midyear.

“Unlike static tests, where loads are applied to the airplane structure to simulate both normal operation and extreme flight conditions, fatigue testing is a much longer process that simulates up to three times the number of flight cycles an airplane is likely to experience during a lifetime of service,” said Scott Fancher, 787 vice president and general manager, Commercial Airplanes.

“This testing is instrumental in confirming the longevity of the airplane.”

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mary Hanson, +1 206-898-4749
787 Communications
mary.hanson@boeing.com

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Boeing’s Space Exploration division, headquartered in Houston, will issue restricted competitions for small and diverse businesses with NASA program experience.

The technical disciplines associated with the solicitations are:

• software engineering
• program integration and configuration management
• engineering design and analysis
• safety and mission assurance
• avionics and systems engineering
• logistics and maintenance.

“In today’s business environment, many small businesses bring innovative and cost-competitive solutions that can complement our business in support of these Houston-based programs,” said Russell Carroll, director of Supplier Management for Boeing Space Exploration.

“Boeing has been a leader in providing opportunities to small businesses in the Houston community for nearly half a century.”

Boeing’s legacy in human spaceflight programs spans four decades. The company has worked on every major human spaceflight program since the beginning of the Space Age.

“Our small-business outreach efforts are an opportunity to listen to representatives from the community and facilitate a process to select the best suppliers to support our Boeing team and offer the best value to NASA,” Carroll added.

“With these latest opportunities, we are especially interested in suppliers that possess proven experience with human spaceflight programs.”

Business representatives who would like to receive more information can contact Small Business Liaison Kevin Howard in Houston at 281-226-4381 or via e-mail at isshoustonsmallbusiness@boeing.com.

Prospective small businesses must submit a completed supplier profile (provided by Howard) no later than Feb. 7 to be eligible to participate.

Boeing is the prime contractor to NASA for the ISS. In addition to designing and building all the major U.S. elements, Boeing also is responsible for ensuring the successful integration of new hardware and software — including components from international partners — as well as for providing sustaining engineering work for the ISS.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Adam Morgan, 281-226-4030
Space Exploration
adam.k.morgan@boeing.com

Ed Memi, 281-226-4029
Space Exploration
edmund.g.memi@boeing.com

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The hardware installation was completed in October and November 2009 at the Peace Eagle Ground Support Center in Konya, Turkey. The team will next install software, then conduct an integration and checkout program.

The Mission Simulator features 10 mission consoles, instructor operator stations, and aircraft equipment rack assemblies.

It will provide training for Turkish Air Force crews on a full range of AEW&C missions, reducing the monetary and environmental costs associated with training on the aircraft.

The Mission Support Center hardware includes both mission planning and flight planning terminals, replay terminals, and Electronic Support Measures workstations.

The center has two main functions: loading mission software onto the Peace Eagle aircraft and providing initial data analysis following a mission.

“These installations are a major step forward for the program and set the stage for formal integration of the hardware and software, as well as for developmental test and evaluation in spring 2010,” said Mark Ellis, Peace Eagle program manager for Boeing.

“We appreciate the significant cooperation and support we have received from the Turkish Air Force at the base in Konya. Likewise, HAVELSAN demonstrated outstanding capability, focus and enthusiasm while working with us over the past 15 months to achieve these two complex design and installation tasks.”

HAVELSAN designed the subsystems, acquired the equipment and performed the two installations. Boeing is providing technical guidance and oversight to ensure total system integration according to the Turkish customer’s requirements.

“Boeing has been an incomparable partner to us in the achievement of this major milestone,” said Buyurman Baykal, Peace Eagle program manager for HAVELSAN.

“HAVELSAN will continue to demonstrate excellence in the Airborne Early Warning and Control domain.”

Installation of a third subsystem, the Software Support Center, is scheduled to be completed in Konya in 2010.

This center will be used for software testing and upgrades. It features a live communications capability for interaction with the Peace Eagle aircraft.

The Peace Eagle program includes four 737 AEW&C aircraft plus ground support segments for mission crew training, mission support and system maintenance.

The Boeing 737-700 features 21st century avionics, navigation equipment and flight deck features. Because of its advanced technology and a worldwide base of suppliers, parts and support equipment, the aircraft requires minimal downtime for maintenance.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Dave Sloan, 253-657-8008
Boeing Defense, Space & Security
david.a.sloan@boeing.com

Boeing, HAVELSAN Install Simulator and Support Hardware for Turkey’s Peace Eagle AEW&C Program | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Two RAAF student pilots entered Pilot Initial Qualification (PIQ) training today, and two more will begin the second PIQ training course on Feb. 15.

Boeing Defence Australia instructors will provide them with 350 hours of programmed training over 100 days, including 85 hours of computer-based training and 120 simulated flight hours with the C-17 Globemaster III Aircrew Training System (ATS).

The Boeing-developed C-17 ATS, provided through a U.S. Air Force Foreign Military Sales contract, consists of a Loadmaster Station, Learning Center, various support systems and a Weapons Systems Trainer (WST), which is a realistic, full-motion simulator used for pilot training.

“Becoming a RAAF C-17 pilot is my ultimate goal, and knowing I’m only a few months away from achieving this is incredibly exciting for me,” said Pilot Officer Stephen Maunder, one of the two RAAF student pilots who began training today.

“Being able to carry out my PIQ training under Boeing instructors at RAAF Base Amberley is a huge advantage, and I’m sure the WST will feel like our second home until we graduate in mid-April.”

After completing the training, which will culminate in five flights at the controls of a real C-17 and acceptance by the RAAF’s No. 36 Squadron, the students will graduate as qualified RAAF pilots.

The RAAF commissioned the C-17 ATS in November, making Australia the first C-17 ATS customer outside the United States. Previously, all RAAF C-17 pilots and aircrew trained in the United States.

“Training in the United States has been an amazing opportunity for all pilots and loadmasters, and Boeing’s U.S. team and the U.S. Air Force at Altus and Hickam bases have provided second-to-none training along with warm hospitality,” said Squadron Leader Brent Taylor, 36 Squadron Training Flight Commander.

“But now that the C-17 WST is operational, the strategic opportunities presented by a locally based training system include removing substantial travel costs and providing increased capability through reduced aircraft training hours, making way for increased tasking.

“The Boeing Defence Australia instructors have strong aviation backgrounds in military and civilian operations, and I look forward to a long and rewarding relationship and have no doubt the in-country training will be of the highest standard,” Taylor added.

Boeing Defence Australia C-17 ATS site lead Nigel Page said that in-country C-17 pilot training “will allow the RAAF to develop a new generation of qualified pilots while saving a considerable amount of time and money through the use of its own facilities at Amberley.

The RAAF is an important Boeing customer, and we look forward to supporting the C-17 strategic airlift capability for national and international operations while expanding our training capability in Australia.”

Boeing Defence Australia provides instructors for PIQ training and continuation training for current RAAF C-17 pilots and loadmasters, as well as scheduling and logistics support.

The company’s full range of training solutions includes mission planning systems; aircrew and maintenance training devices; training centers; and training services including instructors, courseware and logistics support.

About Boeing Defence Australia

Boeing Defence Australia, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company and a business unit of Boeing Defense, Space & Security, is a leading Australian aerospace enterprise.

With a world-class team of nearly 2,000 employees at 13 locations throughout Australia and two international sites, Boeing Defence Australia supports some of the largest and most complex defense projects in Australia.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sarah Wills, +1 (61) 7 3306 3132
Boeing Defence Australia
sarah.e.wills@boeing.com

Alison Sheridan, +1 314-232-8187
Boeing Training Systems & Services
alison.sheridan@boeing.com

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Additional stall tests will take place throughout the flight test period.

The testing went “very well and there were no surprises,” said 787 Chief Pilot Mike Carriker.

The purpose of the testing is to demonstrate that in the rare event a pilot encounters a stall during flight, the airplane reacts benignly and allows for a smooth recovery.

A stall is defined as flying so slowly that the airplane is no longer generating lift.

During stall maneuvers pilots use a disciplined process to slow the airplane down at precise increments to the point where it shakes dramatically, resulting in forces of 1.5 times the force of gravity.

Video highlights and an interview with Carriker are featured in a three-minute video on a new 787 flight test Web site that is being launched today.

The site can be accessed at either boeing.com or newairplane.com.

To receive updates on the 787 flight test program, go to the Web site and click on the RSS feed icon in the right column, near the top of the site.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Lori Gunter, +1 206-931-5919
787 Communications

Boeing provides first look at 787 Dreamliner stall tests | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

“Our priorities for 2010 and beyond are clear,” Albaugh said.

“We must execute on our 787 and 747-8 development programs; we must continue to perform on our ongoing production programs; and in this increasingly competitive world, we must develop a clear vision and roadmap for both the single-aisle and twin-aisle marketplaces.”

In a move to strengthen processes, tools and functional excellence, Albaugh announced the following appointments:

• Howard Chambers will lead a newly created Commercial Airplanes function, Program Management, which will focus on the development of program-management skills and drive enterprise-wide best practices throughout the organization. He most recently was vice president and deputy program manager, 787 Program.
• Tim Copes was named vice president, Manufacturing and Quality, reporting to Ray Conner, vice president and general manager, Supply Chain Management and Operations. Copes most recently was president, Shared Services Group, for The Boeing Company.
• John Cornish was named vice president, 787 Final Assembly, reporting to Scott Fancher, vice president and general manager, 787 Program. Cornish most recently led Commercial Airplanes’ Manufacturing and Quality organization.
• Mike Delaney was named vice president, Engineering, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. He has extensive engineering experience with all five Commercial Airplanes programs, including spending the last two years as 787 chief project engineer.

Albaugh also announced moves intended to strengthen execution of ongoing Boeing programs, including:

• Dan da Silva was named vice president, Freighter Conversions, reporting to Dennis Floyd, vice president, Technical Services, Commercial Aviation Services. Da Silva most recently was vice president, Sales and Marketing, Commercial Aviation Services.
• Stan Deal was named vice president, Supplier Management, reporting to Ray Conner, vice president and general manager of Supply Chain Management and Operations. Deal replaces Steve Schaffer, who will retire April 1 after 36 years with the company. Deal most recently was vice president, Sales, Asia-Pacific for Commercial Airplanes.
• Elizabeth Lund will become vice president and general manager, 767 Program, reporting to Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager, Airplane Programs. Lund most recently was vice president, Product Development.
• Beverly Wyse was named vice president and general manager, 737 Program, also reporting to Shanahan. She replaces Mark Jenkins, who recently announced his retirement after 35 years at Boeing. Wyse most recently was vice president and general manager, 767 Program. She will continue to support the U.S. tanker program.

Albaugh made further executive changes intended to stimulate future growth, saying in a message to employee message Thursday, “Defining Boeing’s airplane product strategy is critical to our future growth. We need a clear vision and roadmap for both our single-aisle and twin-aisle offerings for the future. Also, in the global environment in which we operate, we need a sharpened situational awareness of macro-economic and geopolitical realities”.

• Nicole Piasecki will lead a new BCA Business Development function responsible for the overall integration of strategic planning and analysis critical to maintaining Boeing’s long-term competitiveness. She previously was president, Boeing Japan.
• Mike Bair will lead a newly created Advanced 737 Product-Development team, which will be responsible for planning the future of Boeing’s single-aisle offering. Bair most recently was vice president, Business Strategy and Marketing, Commercial Airplanes.
• Lars Andersen will lead a new Advanced 777 Product-Development team, which will be responsible for Boeing’s large twin-engine, twin-aisle airplane program. Andersen served in a number of key roles on the 777 program, culminating in seven years as vice president and program manager. He retired in 2007, and returns as a consultant.
• Marlin Dailey, vice president, Sales, Commercial Airplanes, will lead an expanded team that also includes product marketing and market analysis.
• John Wojick was named vice president, Sales, Asia Pacific, replacing Deal. Wojick most recently served as vice president, Sales, Leasing and Asset Management.

Additionally, Albaugh announced the following moves:

Mike Denton will become president, Boeing Japan, reporting to Boeing International President Shepherd Hill. Denton most recently was vice president, Engineering, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. He will relocate to Tokyo.

Ray Conner, vice president and general manager, Supply Chain Management and Operations, now has full responsibility, accountability and authority for the entire Boeing Charleston site.

“I have learned a lot during my first five months at BCA,” Albaugh said.

“This is an outstanding team achieving great things together, and we ended 2009 with a strong quarter, exceeding our forecast for operating cash and profit. Today’s announced changes are intended to make the BCA team even stronger to meet current challenges and stay focused on the opportunities ahead.”

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Proulx, 206-766-1393
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Communication
jim.proulx@boeing.com

Boeing Commercial Airplanes leadership to focus on execution today and into the future | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The Combat Network Communications Technology (CONECT) upgrade allows B-52H crews to receive and send real-time digital information during their missions.

The more than three-hour flight around the Edwards area included an initial system build-up test, interphone test and communication test.

The test process included power-on of each system in flight to determine that there were no adverse effects on flight-essential systems.

“Completion of the first test flight brings us one step closer to giving command centers and troops on the ground the ability to communicate with the B-52 through the military’s digital information network,” said Jim Kroening, Boeing B-52 Development Programs manager.

“Augmenting current voice-based communication gives B-52 crews greater situational awareness and significantly enhanced mission capabilities.”

Prior to the first test flight, a robust testing approach was used, starting with unit and system testing in the laboratory, progressing to system ground test and then flight test.

Boeing and the U.S. Air Force have accomplished more than 220 ground test points out of about 500. Ground and flight test will continue through February.

The aircraft will then rotate through its planned depot maintenance at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., and resume ground and flight test in January 2011 at Edwards.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jennifer Hogan, 405-818-7859
Boeing Maintenance, Modifications and Upgrades
jennifer.c.hogan@boeing.com

Boeing B-52 with CONECT upgrade accomplishes first test flight | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Boeing employee and retiree donations, which total more than $910,000 to date, are supporting American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti. Those donations are being matched by the company, up to $1 million.

Company matching funds will be distributed in two parts: The first $100,000 also will support Red Cross relief efforts, while the remaining money–which could total $900,000 if the match goal is achieved–will be distributed by Boeing to support nongovernmental agencies that will help Haiti rebuild in the areas of education, health care and transportation.

“We recognize that there will be a long recovery process, not only for the people of Haiti but also for the country’s hospitals, schools and roads.

For this reason we will direct a major part of our contribution to partner with recovery organizations that are helping to build Haiti’s future,” said Anne Roosevelt, vice president, Global Corporate Citizenship.

Roosevelt said the company match will extend through Feb. 12.

Boeing, through its Global Corporate Citizenship organization, supports disaster response around the world in partnership with nongovernmental agencies, nonprofits and others as well as its employees and retirees through a variety of ways, including cash contributions, volunteer efforts and in-kind donations.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ann Beach, (312) 544-2997

Boeing, employees and retirees support Haiti relief and rebuilding efforts | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

“We are proud to team with Oto Melara to bring SDB and its precision, low-collateral-damage capabilities to the Italian Air Force,” said Debra Rub, Boeing Weapons vice president.

“SDB has the potential to be the weapon solution of choice for many of our friends and allies around the globe. This agreement lays the foundation for continued growth in the international marketplace.”

Under the terms of the contract, Boeing will provide major SDB I mechanical and electrical components and test equipment for production of 500 tactical weapons, 50 four-place weapon carriages, and associated support equipment.

In addition, Boeing will provide technical assistance in establishing a production facility in Italy. Oto Melara will provide various components and complete final weapon assembly and testing.

“With the SDB I program, we have the opportunity to support again the needs of the Italian Air Force with co-production in Italy. Our decennial relationship with Boeing has had and will have the scope to provide state-of-the-art precision weaponry and to manage directly in Italy all needs of our Italian customer,” said Carlo De Rossi, head of Oto Melara’s Breda Meccanica Bresciana unit.

The SDB I co-production project follows previous joint collaborations between Oto Melara and Boeing, including production of about 1,000 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tail kits for the Italian Air Force.

SDB I is a 250-pound class, low-cost and low-collateral-damage precision strike weapon. It incorporates a steel case and penetrating blast-fragmentation warhead.

The weapon’s smaller size, coupled with its four-place carriage, enables more weapons to be carried on each aircraft to improve mission effectiveness and reduce the number of sorties required per mission.

Oto Melara SpA is a company of the Finmeccanica Group, Italy’s major defense industry player, and one of the world’s biggest aerospace and defense groups with 73,000 employees and revenue of 15.1 billion euros.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:Tim Deaton, 314-232-5886
Boeing Weapons Communications
timothy.r.deaton@boeing.com

Marcello Bruni, +39-06-4521-7787
Boeing International Communications – Italy
marcello.bruni@boeing.com

Boeing, Oto Melara Sign Contract for SDB Co-production in Italy | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The order previously was listed on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries Web site as unidentified.

Based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the carrier is investing in the additional airplanes to expand its fleet and broaden its network.

“Since its founding in December 1945, Ethiopian Airlines has been a dedicated Boeing operator — from [the carrier's] first flights using DC-3 propeller-driven airplanes between Addis Ababa and Cairo, to recent orders for the long haul 787s and 777-200LRs, and continuing now with 737-800s.

Ethiopian Airlines has been among the most profitable airlines in the region and one of our most valued partners,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

In 2009, Ethiopian Airlines became the first African carrier to order and operate the ultra-long-range 777-200LR model. Ethiopian also was the first African carrier to order the 787 Dreamliner, ordering 10 in 2005.

“The Boeing Next-Generation 737 has proven to be a reliable and profitable component of our fleet,” said Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Ato Girma Wake.

“Boeing has been an important and valued partner to Ethiopian for many, many years. This order reinforces the deep ties between our two companies.”

Ethiopian Airlines is an all-Boeing operator. With the exception of the 747, it has operated every heritage Boeing commercial airplane since the 707.

The airline operates five 737-700s and two 737-800s. Ethiopian also operates nine 757s, 10 767s and one MD-11BCF (Boeing Converted Freighter), with a second MD-11BCF arriving in August.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Nicolaas Groeneveld-Meijer, +1 206-228-4527
International & Sales Communications
Nicolaas.w.groeneveld-meijer@boeing.com

Boeing, Ethiopian Airlines announce order for 10 next generation 737-800s | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

NASA released a Request For Proposals on Jan. 15 for a contract to provide technical support services including the analysis and physical processing of pressurized cargo and flight crew equipment to be transported to and from the ISS.

The contract also covers launch preparations and post-landing activities related to processing the flight crew equipment.

“Boeing’s experience with the International Space Station program allows us to provide an offer that supports NASA’s priorities for safety, mission success, and innovation,” said Brad Cothran, Boeing’s capture team lead for the contract. “We look forward to continuing our support of NASA and the future of the International Space Station.

The ISS is an important international asset as both a research laboratory and test bed for living and working in space.”

Boeing is the prime contractor to NASA for the ISS. In addition to designing and building all the major U.S. elements, Boeing also is responsible for ensuring the successful integration of any new hardware and software — including components from international partners — as well as for providing sustaining engineering work for the ISS.

The services and support Boeing provides under its Checkout, Assembly, and Payload Processing Services contract include planning for and receiving payloads, maintaining associated ground support systems, integrating payloads with the space shuttle, launch support, and space shuttle post-landing payload activities.

Proposals are due to NASA on April 1. NASA is scheduled to select a contractor at the end of September; work will begin in January 2011. The performance period for the contract is three years with four one-year options, for a potential total of seven years.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Adam Morgan, 281-226-4030
Space Exploration
adam.k.morgan@boeing.com

Ed Memi, 281-226-4029
Space Exploration
edmund.g.memi@boeing.com

Boeing to Bid on International Space Station Cargo Contract | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing the contract, worth up to $2 billion, in June 2007 to provide as many as 242 A-10 replacement-wing sets through 2018.

“This is a phenomenal accomplishment for this Boeing Macon team and a real tribute to the partnership between Boeing and the Air Force to keep these vital aircraft flying in support of U.S. military men and women,” said Dennis Muilenburg, Boeing Defense, Space & Security president and CEO.

“We are honored to help extend the life of these storied planes as they serve our warfighters in their essential close-air support missions.

This is also an important milestone in Boeing’s drive to offer our customers maintenance and modification support on a wide range of aircraft, regardless of the plane’s original manufacturer.”

Boeing will deliver the replacement wing sets to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, in four parts: three wing sections and an installation kit. Air Force personnel will install the wings.

Boeing is scheduled to deliver the first wing set in September and up to 50 wing sets a year at peak production.

The A-10 Thunderbolt, also known as the Warthog, is a twin-engine jet aircraft designed for close-air support of ground forces. More than 350 aircraft are currently in the U.S. fleet participating in both Iraq and Afghanistan operations.

About Boeing Defense, Space & Security

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is one of the world’s largest defense, space and security businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world’s largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft.

Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Defense, Space & Security is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Deborah VanNierop, 210-932-6640
Global Services & Support – San Antonio
deborah.a.vannierop@boeing.com

Boeing Begins A-10 Thunderbolt Wing Assembly for US Air Force | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.

Boeing Capital Corp. results will also be released at that time.

Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim McNerney and Corporate President and Chief Financial Officer James Bell will discuss the results and company outlook during a conference that day at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

That call will be broadcast live at boeing.com.

A Boeing news release will also be available on Chicago Press Release Services.

Individuals should check the website prior to the session to ensure their computers can access the audio stream and slide presentation.

Instructions for obtaining the required free downloadable software will be posted on the site.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Boeing Communications, 312-544-2002

Boeing to Release Fourth-Quarter, Year-End 2009 Results on Jan. 27 | Chicago Press Release Services - Chicago's leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.