Boeing News
Feb 19
Boeing's New CH-47F Chinook Helicopter Begins Operational Test Flights with U.S. Army
The Boeing Company's [NYSE: BA] first production CH-47F Chinook helicopter for the U.S. Army has moved into Operational Testing (OT) at Ft. Campbell, Ky. The aircraft successfully completed acceptance and developmental flight testing in December 2006.
"The new CH-47F is characterized by technology," said Jack Dougherty, director, Boeing H-47 Programs. "The aircraft is equipped with a new digital cockpit and advanced avionics to meet the needs of current and future warfighters."
The flight tests will be conducted by Bravo Company, 7th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). The acceptance flight phase included engine performance, communication and navigation verifications in addition to basic aircraft functionality testing. The OT phase, which ends in April, includes more than 60 flight test hours that simulate a wide range of mission scenarios. The Army will field the aircraft in July 2007.
"The arrival of the first CH-47Fs to the 101st Airborne Division brings us one step closer to employing the most advanced heavy-lift helicopter in the Global War on Terror," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Thomas Todd, CH-47F product manager.
The aircraft is the first of 452 CH-47F helicopters included in the U.S. Army Cargo Helicopter modernization program. It features a newly designed, modernized airframe and a Rockwell Collins Common Avionics Architecture System cockpit and BAE Digital Advanced Flight Control System. The advanced avionics provide improved situational awareness for flight crews with an advanced digital map display and a data transfer system that allows storing of preflight and mission data. Improved survivability features include Common Missile Warning and Improved Countermeasure Dispenser Systems.
The new CH-47F is the result of implementing lean manufacturing techniques, which reduced the overall part count, simplified the manufacturing and assembly process, facilitated the provision of totally new airframes for all CH-47Fs and generated a cost savings of more than 30 percent. The new components will reduce operating and support costs, improve the aircraft's structural integrity and extend the Chinook's service life.
Powered by two 4,868-horsepower Honeywell engines, the new CH-47F can reach speeds greater than 175 mph and transport payloads weighing more than 21,000 lbs. The CH-47F, with the Robertson Aviation Extended Range Fuel System, has a mission radius greater than 400 miles.
Phase II focuses on further payload system definition efforts and lays the foundation for future EPS system definition and production efforts. The work is expected to conclude in December 2007.
"Under the initial six-month contract, Boeing defined the payload architecture and specifications and delivered the payload system requirements review package to the U.S. Air Force," said Charles Toups, vice president of Navigation and Communications Systems for Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems. "Our work on the military's Interim Polar Satellite program, the heritage system to EPS, along with our expertise in digital signal processors and mobile satellite communications means Boeing is well equipped to execute the next phase of development."
The proposed EPS would provide protected satellite communications for warfighters operating in northern polar regions and fill expected communications gaps in areas not covered by the military's Advanced Extremely High Frequency and Transformational Satellite Communications systems now in development. This contract is the first step in defining a robust and secure satellite payload needed for Extremely High Frequency communications for Air Force and Navy warfighters in remote regions of the world.
The U.S. Air Force MILSATCOM Systems Wing at the Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., will oversee the Enhanced Polar System program. The results contained in this submission were generated in whole, or in part, through work supporting the MILSATCOM Systems Wing.
Deliveries of these four airplanes will take place from 2011 through 2013. The value of the new order is approximately $700 million at list prices. The airplanes were added to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries Web site last week, attributed to an unidentified customer.
Air New Zealand was the second airline to order the 787, placing its initial order for two airplanes in 2004. The following year, Air New Zealand ordered two additional Dreamliners. The first of the airline's 787s will be delivered in 2010.
"Air New Zealand has proven itself to be a very progressive airline in managing its costs while maintaining high levels of service and reliability," said Stan Deal, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are very proud to partner with Air New Zealand in providing the airplanes that will allow the airline to build upon its great international reputation."
"These new aircraft are important to Air New Zealand's growth plans over the next decade," said Rob Fyfe, CEO of Air New Zealand. "Their long-haul capabilities will reach to a variety of destinations in Africa, India, the Americas and Asia, bringing some exciting prospects that we can pursue. Additionally the 787 has an industry-leading emissions profile which furthers Air New Zealand's environmental initiatives."
Air New Zealand, during its December announcement, said it was committed to launching at least one new international route every year.
The technologically advanced 787 is an entirely new airplane incorporating composite technologies and new engines that contribute to operating efficiencies and performance characteristics exceeding conventional airframes.
Boeing now has 468 orders and commitments from 37 customers for the 787 since its launch in April 2004.
Boeing [NYSE:BA] and LOT Polish Airlines announced today that the airline has increased its 787 Dreamliner order by one additional aircraft, bringing its total 787 order to eight airplanes. In 2005, LOT placed an order for seven 787s, with delivery positions beginning in 2008.
Today's order, valued at $153 million at list prices, was booked previously on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website, attributed to an unidentified customer.
"We are delighted with the steady progress we're witnessing on the 787 Program and are eager to see the first 787 this year," said Marek Mazur, chief executive officer of LOT Polish Airlines. "Furthermore, we are making excellent progress in preparing for the arrival of the first 787 in our fleet in 2008. We take great pride in being the first European carrier to operate the world's newest, most advanced airplane."
The 787 will revolutionize the customer experience for LOT's passengers. Passengers will enjoy an innovative new interior environment with higher humidity, wider seats and aisles, and larger windows, greatly improving the overall flying experience.
"This follow-on order is a wonderful confirmation of the outstanding value LOT places on the 787," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia. "A dedicated team from Boeing and LOT, one of our early European customers on the program, is making great progress for the introduction of the 787 into their fleet".
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, with first delivery scheduled for 2008, provides passengers with a better flying experience and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner. Including today's order by LOT, 37 customers have logged 468 orders and commitments worth more than $73 billion at current list prices since the 787 launch in April 2004, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.
Feb 18
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today confirmed an order by UPS, the world's largest package delivery company, for 27 Boeing 767-300 Freighters -- an order, when all are delivered, that will nearly double the UPS 767 Freighter fleet.
In addition, the new order pushes the total number of 767s ordered to date to 1,005 airplanes, 77 of which are freighters. With more than 1,000 total orders, the 767 joins an elite group of airplanes that includes Boeing's 707, 727, 737, 747, 757 and MD-80 models.
The 27 new airplanes are slated for delivery beginning in 2009, extending into 2012.
This is the third order by UPS for 767 Freighters, the first coming in 1993 with the model's launch order for 30 airplanes, and the second in late 2000 for two airplanes. UPS introduced the 767 Freighter into service in 1995. In 2005, UPS also ordered eight 747-400 Freighters, the first of which will be delivered about midyear 2007. In addition, UPS is a customer for the 747-400 BCF (Boeing Converted Freighter).
The UPS 767 Freighter fleet is powered by General Electric CF6-80C2 turbofans.
"UPS continues to be an innovative and world-class service provider, as well as an important Boeing customer," said Ray Conner, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 767 Freighter is a proven airplane that has served UPS well, and this order constitutes a strong vote of confidence for the capabilities of the airplane."
"The Boeing 767-300ER freighter already is part of our current air fleet and we know from experience what a great workhorse it is," said UPS Vice President for Airline and International Operations Bob Lekites." It's also a good answer to our fleet management needs because it provides great flexibility, fast time in transit and sound cost performance. In addition, we already have the pilot training, ground support and maintenance systems in place, making for a seamless integration."
In its most recent World Air Cargo Forecast, released in September 2006, Boeing forecasts international air cargo growth to average 6.1 percent during the next 20 years, with Asia-related routes leading that growth. Intra-Asia markets will expand by 8.6 percent, North America-Asia will increase 7.2 percent and Europe-Asia will average 6.9 percent growth.
The 767 Freighter, based on the popular 767-300ER (extended range) passenger twinjet, provides more than 16,034 cubic feet (454 cubic meters) of cargo volume, and the ability to carry approximately 60.5 tons (54.88 tonnes) of revenue payload more than 3,270 nautical miles (6,056 kilometers), holding up to 24 main-deck pallets and seven lower-hold pallets.
UPS is also a key MD-11 Freighter operator, with an extensive Boeing fleet which also includes 727-100, 747-100/-200, 757-200 and DC-8-71/-73 Freighter models.
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced the successful on-orbit handover of the MEASAT-3 satellite to MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn Bhd.
"MEASAT-3 has completed all on-orbit testing, and we were pleased to hand over this satellite to an important customer," said Stephen T. O'Neill, president of Boeing Satellite Systems International. "The handover validates our focus on program execution, attention to detail and listening to our customer every step of the way."
The successful transfer of the Boeing 601 satellite to MEASAT follows on-orbit testing to ensure the spacecraft systems are functioning as designed. Launched on Dec.11, 2006 by an International Launch Services Proton/Breeze M rocket from Kazakhstan, MEASAT-3 will enable MEASAT to deliver direct-to-home television and other telecommunication services across Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Eastern Africa and Eastern Europe.
MEASAT-3 is Boeing's 70th 601 model satellite built at its satellite manufacturing facility in El Segundo, Calif. Boeing also manufactures the larger 702 model, the world's most powerful communications satellite, two lines of satellites designed to support mobile communications, and a series of global positioning satellites and military communications satellites.
Feb 17
The Boeing Company's [NYSE: BA] Global Corporate Citizenship (GCC) NW Region leadership is proud to announce the recent hiring of two managers, Dean McColgan and Liz Vivian.
Both report to Gordon McHenry, director of Corporate Strategy & NW Region GCC, and were hired to help lead and expand the service scope of NW Region GCC. All three serve in Boeing's Government Relations and Global Corporate Citizenship organization, led by Vice President Bob Watt.
McColgan manages the GCC professionals and statement of work for Health and Human Services, Arts and Culture and Boeing's Employees Community Fund (ECF) in the NW Region and GCC employee involvement at the Auburn and Kent sites in Washington State, plus the Portland, Ore. and Maui, Hawaii, sites.
He has more than 27 years of extensive community relations and management experience in the Puget Sound area and is the former director of Major Account Relations with United Way of Pierce County with responsibility for leading corporate clients including Boeing, Russell Investment, Weyerhaeuser, Intel, Comcast, Key Bank, and State Farm Insurance.
McColgan is also a member of the Federal Way City Council and has previously served as the Mayor of Federal Way. He has a personal passion for serving youth and is actively involved with a number of nonprofit organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, Special Olympics and Little League Baseball. McColgan was born in Tacoma, Wash., raised in Hawaii and is a graduate of Gonzaga University where he earned bachelor's degrees in Communications and Political Science.
Vivian manages the GCC professionals and statement of work for Education (Early Learning, Primary and Secondary Education and Higher Education), Civic and Environment in the NW Region and GCC employee involvement at Boeing's Renton, the West Corridor and Bellevue, plus the Everett sites in Washington State.
Vivian has more than 14 years of extensive community relations and management experience, much of it in the Puget Sound area. She has served as executive director of 2V/ACT (originally known as Seattle Youth Involvement Network) and previously worked from Los Angeles as the national field director for Rock The Vote. Prior to coming to Boeing, Vivian served as interim executive director of Aradia Women's Health Center and supported the Washington Women's Foundation as a community relations and project management consultant. She has also held a number of positions with the City of Seattle Human Services department.
She has a personal passion for civic engagement and community building, and is actively involved with a number of nonprofit organizations, including Leadership Tomorrow (graduate of the class of 2003 and now serves on the Curriculum Committee) and City Club. She recently served as a member of the Seattle Public Schools Community Advisory Committee on School Facilities & Programs, and in 2003 was honored as one of the region's outstanding 40 Under Forty by The Puget Sound Business Journal. Born and raised in Seattle, Vivian is a graduate of the University of Redlands in Redlands, Calif., where she earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology.
Feb 16
The first Boeing [NYSE:BA] Next-Generation 737-700ER (Extended Range) airplane took off from Boeing's Seattle Delivery Center today, bound for Japan and service with ANA (All Nippon Airways). ANA launched the 737-700ER program in January 2006, when it exercised rights to substitute 737-700s with two 737-700ERs.
ANA plans to begin using the airplane March 25 when it launches ANA BusinessJet, to serve international business travelers with 24 business class and 24 premium economy class seats, both in four-across configuration. With the airplane, ANA will open its fifth international route from Nagoya's Centrair Airport to Guangzhou, China, providing service on a daily basis. This will bring the number of China routes plied by ANA to a total of 20, with 147 flights per week.
"This new 737 configuration shows the versatility of the Next-Generation family, and the 737-700ER is attracting significant customer interest," said Scott Carson, president and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "It is particularly special that this introduction is with ANA, one of the world's foremost aviation innovators and a customer we value greatly."
"We are introducing the 737-700 as part of our commitment to flying the most efficient, customer pleasing and environmentally friendly fleet of next-generation aircraft," said ANA President and CEO Mineo Yamamoto. "With the new 737-700ER we can offer a product tailored for the business community and, at the same time, secure the cost benefits derived from streamlining our narrow-body fleet into one family of aircraft."
The 737-700ER is inspired by the Boeing Business Jet and is designed for long-range commercial applications. Cabin configuration is flexible, and may range from a 48-person, all-business-class cabin, as an example, to a more traditional 126-seat count to suit the airline's needs. The high-performance derivative can fly up to 2,145 nautical miles further than the current 737-700. With up to nine auxiliary fuel tanks and optional Blended Winglets, the Next-Generation 737-700ER is capable of flying 5,510 nautical miles.
Feb 14
The second Boeing [NYSE: BA] 747-400 Dreamlifter completed its first flight earlier today in Taipei. The Dreamlifter is a specially modified 747-400 used to transport the major composite structures of the all-new 787 Dreamliner.
Piloted by Boeing Flight Test Pilots Jerry Whites and Gary Meiser, the Dreamlifter took off from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport at 10:34 a.m. and flew for three hours and eight minutes. The airplane -- already wearing the distinctive white and blue livery of the Dreamlifter fleet -- handled well during the routine flight.
This Dreamlifter is expected in Washington State within the next few weeks. The first of the unique fleet arrived in September 2006.
Evergreen Aviation Technologies Corp., part of Taiwan's Evergreen Group, is modifying the fleet of three airplanes at its facility at the airport. The first Dreamlifter delivered the first 787 major assemblies from Nagoya, Japan, to Charleston, S.C., last month.
After several delays late last year, the Dreamlifter's flight test program is proceeding well, with certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration expected over the next few months. Already the Dreamlifter has completed more than 1,000 hours of flight and ground testing combined.
"The delays we experienced earlier in the flight test program will not impact our overall 787 schedule," said Scott Strode, vice president of Airplane Definition and Production for the 787 program. "The entire global logistics system, including the Dreamlifter's mobile tail support and cargo loader, is working extremely well."
Feb 12
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it will offer the KC-767 Advanced Tanker for the U.S. Air Force's KC-X Tanker competition.
"The Air Force has made it clear -- the mission is refueling aircraft, often in tight, hostile locations. The Boeing KC-767 Advanced Tanker is made for this mission," said Ron Marcotte, vice president and general manager of Boeing Global Mobility Systems. "It is the ideal fit for the requirements set forth in the Air Force's Request for Proposals. Highly energy efficient, agile and with exceptional takeoff performance, the KC-767 puts more fuel closer to the fight -- with access to more than 1,000 additional bases worldwide than the KC-135."
The tanker will be an advanced derivative of the future 767-200 Long Range Freighter and will be produced at Boeing's facilities in Everett, Wash., on the existing commercial line where more than 950 highly reliable and maintainable 767s have been built. Installation of military refueling systems and flight test activities will take place at the company's finishing center in Wichita, Kan.
Boeing's Global Tanker Team producing the KC-767 Advanced Tanker includes Smiths Aerospace, Rockwell Collins, Vought Aircraft Industries, Honeywell and the newest member -- Spirit AeroSystems. The team has proven expertise in aerial refueling systems, network centric operations, integrated avionics solutions and lean manufacturing concepts.
"This KC-767 Advanced Tanker will support more than 44,000 American jobs and 300 suppliers," said Mark McGraw, vice president, Boeing Tanker Programs.
With more than $1 billion already invested in the KC-767, Boeing will blend the latest commercial and military capabilities into the world's most technologically advanced tanker. Innovations include an advanced fly-by-wire boom, new wing refueling pods, a centerline hose drum refueling unit, the most advanced 777 commercial digital flight deck and a third-generation remote vision refueling system. This is a tanker with flexibility to meet other airlift missions; whether it's delivering three times more pallets and passengers than the KC-135 or five times as many patients and medical crewmembers.
Boeing has been designing, building, modifying and supporting tankers for nearly 75 years. The company is flying KC-767s and has more than 220 flights and 660 hours on the tanker platform.
Feb 5
ST. LOUIS, Feb. 05, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has signed an $11 million sole-source contract with U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command for the refurbishment of the AN/BLQ-11 Long-term Mine Reconnaissance System and further investigation of Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) capabilities and technologies via at-sea testing.
The work will be performed at Boeing facilities in Anaheim, Calif., and at test ranges in Puget Sound, Wash., Norfolk, Va., and the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center near Andros Island, Bahamas.
While the Navy has invested in a variety of other UUV systems that are currently in various stages of development, AN/BLQ-11 is the only submarine-certified, fully autonomous UUV system. In January, Boeing and the Navy demonstrated the ability to perform homing and docking with an underway submarine.
"We proved the feasibility of the homing and docking portion of the AN/BLQ-11 recovery concept," said Tom Jones, director of Boeing Marine Systems. "With this next round of testing, we will show the repeatability of the process and complete a full recovery evolution. We are very pleased the Navy has decided to continue risk reduction testing with AN/BLQ-11 and believe it will demonstrate the enabling technologies required to meet the Navy's desire to field submarine-based UUVs."
During extensive testing in Washington state, the AN/BLQ-11 demonstrated a highly advanced level of autonomy. It is designed to be launched, torpedo-style, from Los Angeles class submarines to survey, detect and gather data on underwater objects for more than 12 hours. Upon completion of its duties, AN/BLQ-11 would then home in and dock with the submarine's 60-foot robotic arm for recovery back through the torpedo launch tube. This system enables operators to retrieve data collected and prepare the vehicle for its next mission. The AN/BLQ-11 system consists of a recovery arm, two unmanned undersea vehicles, shipboard deployed equipment and non-deployed shore support equipment.
SEATTLE, Feb. 05, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has selected Rockwell Collins to provide the entire suite of displays, autopilot, communication, navigation, surveillance, maintenance, emergency and data management systems for its new 747-8 family. The 747-8 is scheduled to enter into service in late 2009.
"This program win is a testament to the successful teamwork approach that we've developed with Boeing," said Kelly Ortberg, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Commercial Systems for Rockwell Collins. "The avionics, which have been selected as standard equipment for all future 747-8 airplanes, will provide advanced technology while maximizing commonality with existing 747-400 fleets."
A key feature of the avionics suite is the Rockwell Collins WXR-2100 MultiScan Hazard Detection System, which is the first and only radar that analyzes and determines actual weather hazards, not simply atmospheric moisture content. It is a fully automatic, hands-free airborne radar system with more than four years of proven operational experience. The WXR-2100 reduces pilot workload and enhances safety and passenger comfort by minimizing unexpected turbulence encounters, while providing optimal clutter-free weather detection from the nose of the airplane to 320 nautical miles (593 kilometers).
"We are excited to have Rockwell Collins on the 747-8 team," said Corky Townsend, chief project engineer, 747 Program. "Rockwell Collins has a long-standing relationship with Boeing and we know they will help us create an airplane that airlines love to operate."
The display system, featuring Rockwell Collins DU-7001 LCD displays, will be upgraded to include many of the advanced features found on the Boeing 777, such as an electronic checklist with cursor control panel, navigation performance scales and vertical situation displays.
The autopilot and navigation systems provided by Rockwell Collins will be enhanced with GPS Landing System functionality, providing added value to the customer and supporting future airspace capacity enhancements.
Other equipment that Rockwell Collins will be providing includes: Communication Management Unit, Satellite Communications System, VHF and HF transceivers, VHF Omnidirectional Radio, Distance Measuring Equipment, Automatic Direction Finder, Multi Mode Receiver, Mode S Transponder, Cockpit Voice Recorder, Flight Data Recorder, Emergency Locator Transmitter, Flight Deck Printer and the Data Management Unit.
Boeing launched the new 747-8 Intercontinental passenger airplane and the 747-8 Freighter on Nov. 14, 2005. Since launch, the program has secured firm orders for 24 747-8 Intercontinentals and 54 747-8 Freighters.
Rockwell Collins [NYSE: COL] is a pioneer in the development and deployment of innovative communication and aviation electronics solutions for both commercial and government applications. Their expertise in flight deck avionics, cabin electronics, mission communications, information management and simulation and training is strengthened by 18,000 employees, and a global service and support network that crosses 27 countries. To find out more, please visit www.rockwellcollins.com.
The 747-8 Program is a family of passenger and freighter airplanes. The 747-8 Intercontinental passenger airplane is the only jetliner in the 400- to 500-seat market. Stretched 5.6 m (18.3 ft) from the 747-400 to provide 467 seats in a typical three-class configuration, the Intercontinental offers the lowest seat-mile cost of any passenger airplane. It provides operators a 14,815-km (8,000-nmi) range, 28 percent greater cargo volume and 10 percent lower seat-mile costs compared to the 747-400. The 747-8 Freighter will fly 8,287 km (4,475 nmi) with a maximum structural payload capacity of 140 metric tonnes (154 tons). It offers 16 percent more revenue cargo volume than the 747-400F with slightly greater range. The 747-8 Freighter upholds its predecessor's legendary efficiency, with equivalent trip costs and 15 percent lower ton-mile costs than the 747-400F. The 747-8 Freighter will enjoy the lowest ton-mile costs of any freighter, giving operators unmatched profit potential. The first 747-8 Freighter will be delivered to launch customer Cargolux in late 2009.
Feb 4
Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the Canadian government have signed an agreement for the purchase of four C-17 Globemaster IIIs for Canada's Department of National Defence to provide new strategic airlift mobility capabilities for the Canadian Forces. The contract, signed Thursday, is for the direct commercial sale of four airframes.
Boeing will deliver the aircraft from its Long Beach, Calif., factory where the advanced airlifters are assembled. The first delivery will occur as soon as fall 2007. The Canadian C-17s will be based at the Canadian Forces Base in Trenton, Ontario.
"Boeing is pleased that Canada joins its international partners -- the U.S. Air Force, the U.K. Royal Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force -- in selecting C-17, the world's leading airlifter to modernize its defense forces airlift fleet," said Dave Bowman, vice president and C-17 program manager. "We look forward to delivering C-17s and a new world-class airlift capability to Canada, with industry-leading safety, quality and reliability that all C-17 customers enjoy."
As the only tactical airlifter with strategic range, the C-17 has become the world's airlifter of choice. Boeing is on contract to design, build, deliver and support 190 U.S. Air Force C-17s. The new Canadian C-17s are already factored into the C-17 production plan and will not extend the Long Beach production line beyond mid-2009, when the last C-17 is scheduled for delivery. In addition to the 160 C-17s now in service with the U.S. Air Force, the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force operates four C-17s, and the Royal Australian Air Force in late 2006 took delivery of its first of four C-17s. With today's announcement, Canada will become the fourth nation to operate C-17s.
Feb 2
ST. LOUIS, Feb. 02, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) [NYSE: SAI], functioning as the Lead Systems Integrator for the U.S. Army's Future Combat Systems (FCS) program, have successfully completed an eight-month experiment that is a cornerstone of soldier evaluation activities and an important step toward the early infusion of key FCS capabilities to the current force.
Experiment 1.1, spanning July 2006 through February 2007, is a three-phase effort that combines laboratory, field and demonstration activities with soldier testing of early FCS prototypes. The experiment will help reduce program risk; provide early feedback into the System of Systems development, integration and verification process; and identify and prioritize any needed refinements early in the development process.
"Experimentation is critical to FCS program success and most importantly will help enable the early spin out of key capabilities to the current force in 2008," said Dennis Muilenburg, vice president and general manager of Boeing Combat Systems and FCS program manager. "The successful completion of Experiment 1.1 further validates the progress and maturity of selected FCS technologies and demonstrated interoperability between FCS and current force systems."
Phase 1 engineering laboratory events, conducted July 2006 through September 2006 at the FCS System of Systems Integration Laboratory in Huntington Beach, Calif., and the Army's Systems Engineering and Experimentation Lab at Fort Monmouth, N.J., tested hardware and software integration, as well as networking and systems interoperability.
Phase 2 field events, conducted September 2006 through December 2006 at the White Sands Missile Range, N.M., and Ft. Bliss, Texas, testing complex, focused on gathering data and assessing FCS systems performance while operating in a realistic environment. The FCS team, which included more than a dozen U.S. Army soldiers as observers, demonstrated Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System networking, Distributed Fusion Management capabilities, Unattended Ground Sensors capabilities, Joint Tactical Radio System Ground Mobile Radio performance, and interoperability with current Army and Marine Corps systems.
During Phase 2, the FCS team also demonstrated interoperability between FCS and an AH-64D Apache multi-role helicopter. This included the exchange of real-time situational awareness and the ability to display video imagery from the FCS Class I Unmanned Aerial Vehicle in the helicopter's cockpit. The interoperability demonstration is an example of how FCS network-centric technology can be used to send the right information to the right place at the right time in the battlespace.
The final demonstration phase of Experiment 1.1, which was conducted January 2007 to February 2007 at the White Sands Missile Range and Ft. Bliss test complex, included 36 soldier participants who provided "hands-on" feedback of early FCS prototypes, while exercising initial doctrinal concepts for employing these new capabilities. Phase 3 represented the first time soldiers collectively employed FCS systems in a live training environment and used an FCS computer-based training support package.
SAIC is a leading provider of scientific, engineering, systems integration and technical services and solutions to all branches of the U.S. military, agencies of the Department of Defense, the intelligence community, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and other U.S. Government civil agencies, as well as to customers in selected commercial markets. With more than 44,000 employees in over 150 cities worldwide, SAIC engineers and scientists solve complex technical challenges requiring innovative solutions for customers' mission-critical functions. SAIC had annual revenues of $7.8 billion for its fiscal year ended January 31, 2006. SAIC: FROM SCIENCE TO SOLUTIONS™
Feb 1
A Boeing-led [NYSE: BA] team is preparing a response to a Request for Proposals (RFP), released on Jan. 26, from the U.S. Department of Defense for system design and development of its Airborne and Maritime/Fixed Station Joint Tactical Radio System (AMF JTRS).
Boeing and its best-of-industry teammates -- Rockwell Collins, Harris, L-3 Communications, BBN Technologies, Northrop Grumman and Milcom Systems Corporation -- have supported the AMF JTRS pre-system design and development phase since 2004. The Boeing team expects to respond to the RFP within 45 days, as required. Contract award is anticipated to occur by July 2007.
"Our best-of-industry team offers a low-risk, low-cost solution that leverages Boeing's market-leading experience in network-centric operations," said Leo Conboy, Boeing AMF JTRS program manager. "We have already successfully demonstrated the key networking capability and many of the legacy waveforms needed by the warfighter."
Boeing's AMF JTRS communications system will provide warfighters with software-defined radios that feature Internet-like capabilities, allowing them to communicate with one another in a network-centric environment in the air, on land and at sea. The system features secure battlespace networking, including the transmission and receipt of real-time text and voice information, as well as the ability to stream live audio and video, share maps, conduct networked meetings and use Voiceover Internet Protocol.
Jan 29
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise (SALE) today announced that the lessor has exercised options and purchase rights for 20 Boeing Next-Generation 737-800s.
The agreement, valued at US$1.4 billion at list prices, follows previous orders in May 2005 and April 2006 for a total of 30 737s. The new order, finalized in December, was included in 2006 order totals and attributed to an unidentified customer.
"Since SALE placed its first 737 order in May 2005, we have enjoyed huge success in placing the aircraft with airlines across the world," said SALE Chief Executive Officer Robert Martin. "The fact that we have exercised all of our outstanding options and purchase rights at this time reflects our confidence in the strong ongoing demand for this product line."
The new airplanes are scheduled for delivery between 2009 and 2011. As with previous orders by SALE, the 737-800 is the baseline model specified, but the agreement provides for conversions to other Next-Generation 737 family models.
"Reaching the 50-airplane milestone is a significant step in our relationship with Singapore Aircraft Leasing," said Barry Caldwell, director of Sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The global popularity of the 737 ensures that these airplanes will bring years of profitable operations for both SALE and their customer airlines."
The 737 provides proven flexibility, dispatch reliability and economic performance as well as a global support network -- important aspects as SALE markets its 737s to airlines throughout the world.
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the 11th F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Block 2 to Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana, Va. The aircraft are equipped with the ground-breaking APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.
"The AESA-equipped radar on the Super Hornet Block 2 provides greater range and the ability to track many more targets," said Bob Feldmann, Boeing F/A-18 Programs vice president. "The ability to maximize sensors, such as the AESA, was part of the initial design and vision for the Super Hornet."
Boeing is delivering AESA-equipped Super Hornet Block 2 aircraft to two squadrons at NAS Oceana -- the Black Lions of VFA-213 and the Gladiators of VFA-106. VFA-213 will be the first U.S. Navy squadron to fly all AESA-equipped Super Hornets. In addition, there are two AESA-equipped Block 2 Super Hornets attached to VFA-122, the Flying Eagles Fleet Replacement Squadron, at NAS Lemoore, Calif.
"Raytheon's new APG-79 AESA radar system provides our Navy customer with a critical leap forward in reliability, supportability and capability," said Erv Grau, vice president of Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems. "The incorporation of advanced solid state electronics into the array revolutionizes reliability, and the remainder of the system is so robust that only minimal flight line maintenance is required. This type of performance was unheard of in the radar world until now."
On Oct. 27, 2006, VFA-213 became the first AESA-equipped F/A-18E/F Super Hornet operational squadron to attain "safe for flight" status, which clears it to independently fly and maintain its state-of-the-art Block 2 Super Hornets.
The APG-79 AESA is the next-generation agile beam radar for the Super Hornet Block 2. More lethal, reliable and affordable than its predecessors, the AESA provides the Super Hornet with precision strike support and enhanced situational awareness. This "game changing" radar offers multi-target tracking and increased situational awareness. In air-to-air engagements, the radar allows targets to be engaged at very long ranges and offers reduced aircrew workload via its resource manager. The system also offers high resolution ground mapping at long standoff ranges for air-to-surface tracking, with an interleaved mode capability and a five fold increase in system reliability.
AESA completed developmental testing in June 2006 and is currently completing an operational evaluation that began in July 2006.
The Boeing [NYSE: BA] team that is building the Space Based Space Surveillance (SBSS) system has successfully passed the System Critical Design Review (CDR) as the U.S. Air Force authorized the program to proceed toward a December 2008 launch.
The CDR, a four-day event in Seal Beach, Calif., included more than 100 government and industry participants. The team reviewed the SBSS Pathfinder system's architecture, design, assembly, integration and test approach, and concept of operations.
"The successful on-time completion of the SBSS CDR shows our focus on program execution is paying off," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "We are committed to providing an on-time, high-quality system in support of this critical space situational awareness mission to support worldwide military operations."
The review was the culmination of more than 32 evaluations conducted over the last few months, including detailed reviews of the program's ground segment and space vehicle.
In his closing comments, Lt. Col. Steven Nessmiller, U.S. Air Force SBSS program manager, said, "Presentations, analysis and documentation have provided evidence of a complete detailed design, and the road to launch is well defined and achievable. This was a great team effort, and the fact that only one action item remained open at the conclusion of this four-day event is a great example of how working together, we were able to successfully accomplish such a major program milestone."
The SBSS Pathfinder will augment the existing space surveillance network and provide increased capacity and timeliness to detect and track orbiting space objects, including potential future threats to America's space assets. The Boeing team is developing the spacecraft with a visible sensor and ground segment, with an option to operate the system for up to one year prior to transitioning operations and maintenance to the Air Force.
Jan 27
Boeing KC-767 Tanker Completes First Contact With Receiver
A Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-767 Tanker yesterday logged another major milestone when its aircrew used the fifth generation, fly-by-wire boom (a telescoping tube used to deliver fuel to military aircraft) to make a series of "dry contacts" with a B-52 bomber assigned to the Air Force Flight Test Center, Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.
"Making contact with a receiver is a huge step for our first KC-767," said Lt. Col. Roberto Poni, Italian Air Force Tanker program liaison. "We're pleased about the important milestone just completed and look forward to further testing of both the boom and wing aerial refueling pod systems."
The advanced boom builds on the aerodynamic shape and size of previous systems and can transfer 900 gallons (3,400 liters) of fuel per minute. Providing more precise and responsive controls to the operator, the boom automatically corrects its position to reduce potential damage to the receiver aircraft. With 2,600 fewer parts than previous booms, it also is easier to maintain.
"Our path forward includes more dry contacts, refueling a variety of receivers and testing the entire system. Not only will these milestones help us provide KC-767 Tankers to Italy and Japan, they will help Boeing deliver a proven boom and aerial refueling capability to the U.S. Air Force for their KC-X Tanker," said Mark McGraw, vice president, Boeing Tanker Programs.
Boeing is competing for a contract to replace the U.S. Air Force's KC-135 Tanker fleet. A final Request for Proposals for the KC-X program is expected soon followed by a contract award announcement in the summer.
Boeing has produced nearly 2,000 tankers in its history and currently is building four tankers each for Italy and Japan. The KC-767 has logged more than 200 flights and 600 hours during its flight test program.
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] Wednesday delivered a Next-Generation 737-800 to China United Airlines Company Limited, marking the first delivery of a new 737 to the airline.
China United Airlines, a Beijing-based airline jointly owned by Shanghai Airlines Company Limited and China Aviation Supplies Import and Export Group Corporation (CASGC), operates a scheduled network of destinations within China.
The new airplane is leased from International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC) to China United Airlines. This is the third Next-Generation 737 in China United Airlines' fleet. The carrier currently operates two Boeing 737-700s leased from Shanghai Airlines.
an 24
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] will compete for a U.S. Air Force contract valued at up to $1.5 billion over two five-year periods for the manufacture of approximately 200 wing sets for the A-10 fleet.
"Boeing Support Systems has the skilled expertise and engineering know-how to provide the Air Force with a low-risk, low-cost solution that addresses the needs of the A-10 program," said Curt Nothstine, director for Aircraft Sustainment and Modernization for Boeing's Maintenance, Modification and Upgrades business.
The A-10 wing replacement program calls for the replacement wing sets to be delivered in parts and kitted for easy installation. The Air Force is expected to evaluate competitors on past performance capability, total evaluated price and program schedule, before awarding the contract in March.
"Boeing has teamed with key suppliers to meet all the requirements presented by the A-10 request for proposals," continued Nothstine. "Using advanced lean manufacturing technologies, we will be able to provide a solution and assembly kit that will allow the A-10s to fly at least 20 more years before needing an inspection."
The A-10 Thunderbolt II, first introduced in 1976, is a twin-engine jet aircraft designed for close air support of ground forces. The simple, effective and survivable single-seat aircraft can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles.
