SEATTLE, Nov. 11, 2010 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today celebrated the opening of a new P-8 aircraft production facility near Boeing Field in Seattle. The refurbished factory gives Boeing and its P-8 teammates the space they need to install mission systems and conduct tests on aircraft for current and future customers.
"The new factory is a great fit as Boeing transitions to building production aircraft, in part because it allows us to incorporate a leaner workflow," said Chuck Dabundo, Boeing vice president and P-8 program manager. "We’ll complete work on the P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the U.S. Navy and the P-8I aircraft for the Indian navy in this facility, and plan to use this space for future P-8 customers’ aircraft as well."
The U.S. Navy plans to purchase 117 P-8A anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft to replace its existing P-3 fleet. Initial operational capability is scheduled for 2013. The Indian navy signed a contract for eight P-8I aircraft in January 2009. Boeing will deliver the first P-8I within 48 months of contract signing, and the remaining seven by 2015.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes employees assemble the P-8 aircraft -- which are based on the company’s Next-Generation 737 commercial airplane -- in Renton, Wash. Following final assembly, the P-8s make a short flight to Boeing Field. Inside the new facility, Defense, Space and Security employees will complete systems installation and testing prior to customer delivery.
Boeing is using a proven in-line production process to efficiently design and build the aircraft. All aircraft modifications unique to the P-8 are made in sequence during fabrication and assembly. Implementing established best practices and common, commercial production-system tools enables the team to reduce flow time and cost while ensuring quality.
As part of the U.S. Navy System Development and Demonstration contract Boeing received in 2004, the team is building and testing six flight-test and two ground-test aircraft. The first three flight-test aircraft are completing testing at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md.
The P-8 is built by a Boeing-led industry team that includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Spirit AeroSystems, GE Aviation and BAE Systems.
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 and Security is a $34 billion business with 68,000 employees worldwide. Follow us on Twitter: @BoeingDefense.
Showing posts with label Boeing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Boeing. Show all posts
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Boeing Submits Final Bid for International Space Station Cargo Contract
HOUSTON, Sept. 30, 2010 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has submitted its final bid for NASA’s Cargo Mission Contract (CMC) for the International Space Station (ISS). Boeing's bid draws on more than 50 years of the company's human spaceflight experience, as well as first-hand knowledge of ISS operations and cargo processing.
The contract calls for technical support services, including analysis and physical processing of pressurized cargo and flight crew equipment to be transported between the ISS and Earth. It also includes launch preparations and post-landing activities related to processing cargo and flight crew equipment.
"Boeing sees the ISS CMC as an important opportunity to ensure the viability of the ISS with effective logistics and resupply at an affordable price," said Brewster Shaw, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space Exploration. "The Boeing CMC team offers the skills and flexibility to support NASA's ISS cargo needs as the space transportation fleet evolves.
"As NASA's partner in the development, operation and sustainment of the ISS, Boeing shares an interest in ensuring this national resource and world-class laboratory is used to its full capability and potential," Shaw added.
NASA plans to select a contractor in November. Work is expected to begin on April 1, 2011, following a 90-day phase-in period. The performance period for the contract is three years with four one-year options, for a potential total of seven years.
If selected, Boeing plans to execute the contract with its highly experienced human spaceflight work force, with support from some of the workers who are currently performing tasks on CMC predecessor contracts.
"Boeing has access to experts within our Space Exploration division and across the Boeing enterprise -- including technical experts in specialty disciplines NASA has relied on before," said Brad Cothran, Boeing capture team lead for the contract. "We will draw on our own resources and our extensive supplier network to offer a solution that is both innovative and cost-effective, while supporting NASA's priorities for safety and mission success."
Boeing encourages personnel on the predecessor contracts to the ISS CMC to visit the company's team website at www.boeing.com/cmc. Following contract award, the website will be updated with content including teammate information, staffing plans, job fairs and other information.
Boeing is the prime contractor to NASA for the ISS program in Houston as well as NASA's contractor for the Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services (CAPPS) contract at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. In addition to designing and building the major U.S. elements for the ISS, Boeing also is responsible for ensuring the successful integration of new hardware and software, including components from international partners and sustaining engineering for the ISS.
The services and support Boeing provides under its CAPPS 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.
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.
The contract calls for technical support services, including analysis and physical processing of pressurized cargo and flight crew equipment to be transported between the ISS and Earth. It also includes launch preparations and post-landing activities related to processing cargo and flight crew equipment.
"Boeing sees the ISS CMC as an important opportunity to ensure the viability of the ISS with effective logistics and resupply at an affordable price," said Brewster Shaw, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space Exploration. "The Boeing CMC team offers the skills and flexibility to support NASA's ISS cargo needs as the space transportation fleet evolves.
"As NASA's partner in the development, operation and sustainment of the ISS, Boeing shares an interest in ensuring this national resource and world-class laboratory is used to its full capability and potential," Shaw added.
NASA plans to select a contractor in November. Work is expected to begin on April 1, 2011, following a 90-day phase-in period. The performance period for the contract is three years with four one-year options, for a potential total of seven years.
If selected, Boeing plans to execute the contract with its highly experienced human spaceflight work force, with support from some of the workers who are currently performing tasks on CMC predecessor contracts.
"Boeing has access to experts within our Space Exploration division and across the Boeing enterprise -- including technical experts in specialty disciplines NASA has relied on before," said Brad Cothran, Boeing capture team lead for the contract. "We will draw on our own resources and our extensive supplier network to offer a solution that is both innovative and cost-effective, while supporting NASA's priorities for safety and mission success."
Boeing encourages personnel on the predecessor contracts to the ISS CMC to visit the company's team website at www.boeing.com/cmc. Following contract award, the website will be updated with content including teammate information, staffing plans, job fairs and other information.
Boeing is the prime contractor to NASA for the ISS program in Houston as well as NASA's contractor for the Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services (CAPPS) contract at Kennedy Space Center, Fla. In addition to designing and building the major U.S. elements for the ISS, Boeing also is responsible for ensuring the successful integration of new hardware and software, including components from international partners and sustaining engineering for the ISS.
The services and support Boeing provides under its CAPPS 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.
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.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
1st Boeing SBSS Satellite Sends Initial Signals from Space
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Sept. 26, 2010 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has acquired initial on-orbit signals from the first Space Based Space Surveillance (SBSS) satellite following its launch at 9:41 p.m. Pacific time on Sept. 25 from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. The signals indicate that the satellite is functioning normally and is ready to begin orbital maneuvers and operational testing.
The SBSS Block 10 satellite, which was built for the U.S. Air Force by a Boeing-led team that includes Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., was launched by an Orbital Sciences Minotaur IV rocket. The first signals from the advanced space surveillance satellite were received a short time later. The Boeing SBSS Satellite Operations Center at Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., confirmed that the satellite is healthy.
When it goes into operation with the Air Force, the SBSS satellite will be the service’s only space-based sensor capable of detecting and monitoring debris, satellites and other space objects without the disruptions from weather, atmosphere or time of day that limit ground-based observations. The satellite and its ground system will dramatically improve the accuracy and timeliness of tracking and monitoring capabilities, and provide the flexibility to quickly respond to new and changing mission requirements.
“The United States depends on space assets for security, communications, weather forecasting, and many other essential services,” said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems. “America’s adversaries recognize this increasing dependence, which makes the need for enhanced space situational awareness more and more vital. Today, the Air Force and Boeing SBSS team are delivering this advanced capability to the nation.”
Shortly after launch, the SBSS satellite began an automated sequence that deployed solar arrays, pointed them at the sun, and initialized satellite operations. For the next two weeks, operators will perform health checks on the satellite bus, followed by payload checkout. Tests include sending simulated space situational awareness tasks to the SBSS Satellite Operations Center, which will send commands to the satellite and collect data from those tasks for the Air Force Joint Space Operations Center. The SBSS system is expected to be ready to perform its mission and be turned over to the Air Force within 60 days.
“The successful launch of SBSS is an important milestone to ensure that this nation’s assets are protected,” said David L. Taylor, president and CEO of Ball Aerospace. “We are proud to be a leader in providing critical technology development to the Air Force’s space situational awareness mission.”
Boeing is responsible for overall program management; systems engineering and integration; design and development of the SBSS Satellite Operations Center at Schriever; and system operations and maintenance. Ball Aerospace developed, designed, manufactured, integrated and tested the satellite, using the Boeing-built onboard mission data processor.
The SBSS Block 10 satellite, which was built for the U.S. Air Force by a Boeing-led team that includes Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., was launched by an Orbital Sciences Minotaur IV rocket. The first signals from the advanced space surveillance satellite were received a short time later. The Boeing SBSS Satellite Operations Center at Schriever Air Force Base, Colo., confirmed that the satellite is healthy.
When it goes into operation with the Air Force, the SBSS satellite will be the service’s only space-based sensor capable of detecting and monitoring debris, satellites and other space objects without the disruptions from weather, atmosphere or time of day that limit ground-based observations. The satellite and its ground system will dramatically improve the accuracy and timeliness of tracking and monitoring capabilities, and provide the flexibility to quickly respond to new and changing mission requirements.
“The United States depends on space assets for security, communications, weather forecasting, and many other essential services,” said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems. “America’s adversaries recognize this increasing dependence, which makes the need for enhanced space situational awareness more and more vital. Today, the Air Force and Boeing SBSS team are delivering this advanced capability to the nation.”
Shortly after launch, the SBSS satellite began an automated sequence that deployed solar arrays, pointed them at the sun, and initialized satellite operations. For the next two weeks, operators will perform health checks on the satellite bus, followed by payload checkout. Tests include sending simulated space situational awareness tasks to the SBSS Satellite Operations Center, which will send commands to the satellite and collect data from those tasks for the Air Force Joint Space Operations Center. The SBSS system is expected to be ready to perform its mission and be turned over to the Air Force within 60 days.
“The successful launch of SBSS is an important milestone to ensure that this nation’s assets are protected,” said David L. Taylor, president and CEO of Ball Aerospace. “We are proud to be a leader in providing critical technology development to the Air Force’s space situational awareness mission.”
Boeing is responsible for overall program management; systems engineering and integration; design and development of the SBSS Satellite Operations Center at Schriever; and system operations and maintenance. Ball Aerospace developed, designed, manufactured, integrated and tested the satellite, using the Boeing-built onboard mission data processor.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Boeing Marks Construction Milestone on South Carolina 787 Final Assembly Building
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., Sept. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) today marked completion of the steel framework for its new 787 Dreamliner Final Assembly building with a special topping-out ceremony. The event was held in conjunction with BE&K/Turner, the design-builder of the facility.
The final piece of steel was put into place on the 1.1 million-square-foot (102,193 square meters) structure less than a year after the November 2009 groundbreaking. Approximately 18,000 tons of steel are used in the building.
"By this time next year, the Final Assembly building will be complete, and we will have begun production of the first South Carolina-built 787 Dreamliner. That is tremendous – from green-field site to airplane production in about 18 months," said Marco Cavazzoni, vice president and general manager, 787 Final Assembly and Delivery. "The support we've received and continue to receive from our South Carolina partners and suppliers, as well as the state and local community is amazing and is one of the main reasons we've been able to reach these significant milestones in such a short timeframe."
Construction on the new facility is on schedule, with airplane production due to begin in July 2011 and first delivery in first-quarter 2012. At full production rate, Boeing will assemble and deliver three 787s per month from South Carolina to customers around the world. The South Carolina Final Assembly facility will be one of only three in the world producing twin-aisle commercial jetliners.
The final piece of steel was put into place on the 1.1 million-square-foot (102,193 square meters) structure less than a year after the November 2009 groundbreaking. Approximately 18,000 tons of steel are used in the building.
"By this time next year, the Final Assembly building will be complete, and we will have begun production of the first South Carolina-built 787 Dreamliner. That is tremendous – from green-field site to airplane production in about 18 months," said Marco Cavazzoni, vice president and general manager, 787 Final Assembly and Delivery. "The support we've received and continue to receive from our South Carolina partners and suppliers, as well as the state and local community is amazing and is one of the main reasons we've been able to reach these significant milestones in such a short timeframe."
Construction on the new facility is on schedule, with airplane production due to begin in July 2011 and first delivery in first-quarter 2012. At full production rate, Boeing will assemble and deliver three 787s per month from South Carolina to customers around the world. The South Carolina Final Assembly facility will be one of only three in the world producing twin-aisle commercial jetliners.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Boeing Completes Production of 1st Australian Super Hornet with Provisions for Future Electronic Attack Capability
ST. LOUIS, Sept. 23, 2010 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today that it has completed production of the first Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F/A-18F Super Hornet that has the capability to be converted into an electronic attack aircraft.
Boeing is pre-wiring the RAAF's second lot of 12 Super Hornets for potential electronic attack capability conversion during production at the company's facilities in St. Louis.
"Incorporating the ability to introduce an electronic attack capability on 12 RAAF Super Hornets as they are produced in St. Louis provides maximum flexibility for our Air Force in the future," said RAAF Group Capt. Steve Roberton, Officer Commanding 82 Wing, which includes Super Hornet and F-111 aircraft. "Ultimately, if a decision to incorporate an electronic attack option is pursued, it will further expand the broad capability of an already formidable Super Hornet weapon system."
The Australian government announced in March 2007 that it would acquire 24 of the advanced Block II versions of the Super Hornet, all of which are equipped with the Raytheon-built APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. Eleven Super Hornets are now operating at RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland. All 11 aircraft were delivered ahead of schedule and on budget. Boeing will deliver Australia's 24th Super Hornet in 2011.
"Besides giving the RAAF the potential of introducing electronic attack capability in the future, producing these 12 aircraft with this configuration from the outset also reduces cost when compared with retrofitting at a later date," said Carolyn Nichols, Australian Super Hornet program manager for Boeing.
The Boeing Super Hornet is a multirole aircraft, able to perform virtually every mission in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day/night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter escort, close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses, maritime strike, reconnaissance, forward air control and tanker missions. Boeing has delivered more than 430 F/A-18E/Fs to the U.S. Navy. Every Super Hornet produced has been delivered on or ahead of schedule and on budget.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Boeing Receives Florida Governor's Business Expansion Award
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., Sept. 22, 2010 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today received the Governor’s Business Expansion Award from Enterprise Florida at the Governor’s 2010 Business Diversification Awards ceremony in Tallahassee. The Boeing operation at Cecil Field in Jacksonville, Fla., won the award after the site received the consolidated U.S. Navy F/A-18 work and the U.S. Air Force QF-16 contract. The consolidation and contract win will add approximately 75 jobs to the Cecil Field facility.
"This expansion to our work scope will allow us to be even more responsive to our customers by colocating related programs in one spot," said Gary Phillips, Cecil Field site executive for Boeing. “We’re honored that the governor’s office has recognized our expansion as a significant contribution to the community of Jacksonville and the Duval County area."
"Florida's entrepreneurs and business leaders are major contributors to the state's economic growth," said Enterprise Florida President and CEO John Adams Jr. "Today, we recognized some of their exemplary accomplishments in creating marketable products and services, which are increasing Florida's competitiveness and building a future economy that will serve all segments of our population very well."
With the addition of the F/A-18 Structural Repair Facility, Cecil Field’s capabilities now include avionics repairs and upgrades; aircraft modification and maintenance; structural and composite component repair; and full nondestructive inspection. The Boeing team at Cecil Field draws on a decade of experience to support Navy and Marine Corps F/A-18A-F aircraft service, repair and modification programs. The facility, located at Cecil Commerce Center, includes 479,000 square feet of maintenance, manufacturing, warehousing and office space.
"Boeing is proud to be part of the Jacksonville community," Phillips said. "With our growth now and in the future, we look forward to making a positive impact here for many years to come."
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.
"This expansion to our work scope will allow us to be even more responsive to our customers by colocating related programs in one spot," said Gary Phillips, Cecil Field site executive for Boeing. “We’re honored that the governor’s office has recognized our expansion as a significant contribution to the community of Jacksonville and the Duval County area."
"Florida's entrepreneurs and business leaders are major contributors to the state's economic growth," said Enterprise Florida President and CEO John Adams Jr. "Today, we recognized some of their exemplary accomplishments in creating marketable products and services, which are increasing Florida's competitiveness and building a future economy that will serve all segments of our population very well."
With the addition of the F/A-18 Structural Repair Facility, Cecil Field’s capabilities now include avionics repairs and upgrades; aircraft modification and maintenance; structural and composite component repair; and full nondestructive inspection. The Boeing team at Cecil Field draws on a decade of experience to support Navy and Marine Corps F/A-18A-F aircraft service, repair and modification programs. The facility, located at Cecil Commerce Center, includes 479,000 square feet of maintenance, manufacturing, warehousing and office space.
"Boeing is proud to be part of the Jacksonville community," Phillips said. "With our growth now and in the future, we look forward to making a positive impact here for many years to come."
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.
Boeing, Cathay Pacific Airways Finalize Contract for Six 777-300ERs
SEATTLE, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Cathay Pacific Airways today announced the Hong Kong-based carrier has exercised existing purchase rights for six additional Boeing 777-300ERs (extended range).
The six new airplanes, with an estimated value of US$1.6 billion at Boeing list prices, will increase Cathay Pacific's 777-300ER future fleet from 30 to 36.
Cathay Pacific, one of the world's largest operators of the popular jetliner, also operates 12 Boeing 777-300s and five 777-200s.
"Cathay Pacific is a valued long-time Boeing customer. The global reach of Cathay Pacific's 777 fleet showcases the airplane's exceptional performance features and its passenger appeal around the world," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "This additional commitment from a world-class operator like Cathay Pacific is a testament to the greater efficiency, economics and reliability of the 777-300ER."
Cathay Pacific first announced its selection of the 777-300ER in 2005. This announcement is Cathay Pacific's fourth increase in its acquisition plans for the long-range jetliner.
"We are very pleased to confirm this purchase of six more Boeing 777-300ERs – a superb aircraft that already has significantly enhanced our operations on key long-haul routes," said Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Tony Tyler. "We have been very impressed by the operating economics of these aircraft, while their high efficiency has resulted in a reduced environmental impact. As we continue to enhance our fleet, the 777-300ER will play a crucial role in our operations in the years to come."
The Boeing 777 is the world's most successful twin-engine, long-haul airplane. The 777-300ER extends the 777 family's span of capabilities, bringing twin-engine efficiency and reliability to the long-range market.
Boeing incorporated several performance enhancements for the 777-300ER, extending its range and payload capabilities. Excellent performance during flight testing, combined with engine efficiency improvements and design changes that reduce drag and airplane weight, contributed to the increased capability.
In addition to Boeing 777s, Cathay Pacific operates 47 747-400s in both passenger and cargo versions. The airline also has ordered 10 Boeing 747-8 Freighters. The highly efficient new cargo airplane will augment the airline's fleet of 25 747 Freighters used to connect Hong Kong to a wide range of international markets.
Sixty-one customers around the world have ordered more than 1,100 777s.
The six new airplanes, with an estimated value of US$1.6 billion at Boeing list prices, will increase Cathay Pacific's 777-300ER future fleet from 30 to 36.
Cathay Pacific, one of the world's largest operators of the popular jetliner, also operates 12 Boeing 777-300s and five 777-200s.
"Cathay Pacific is a valued long-time Boeing customer. The global reach of Cathay Pacific's 777 fleet showcases the airplane's exceptional performance features and its passenger appeal around the world," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "This additional commitment from a world-class operator like Cathay Pacific is a testament to the greater efficiency, economics and reliability of the 777-300ER."
Cathay Pacific first announced its selection of the 777-300ER in 2005. This announcement is Cathay Pacific's fourth increase in its acquisition plans for the long-range jetliner.
"We are very pleased to confirm this purchase of six more Boeing 777-300ERs – a superb aircraft that already has significantly enhanced our operations on key long-haul routes," said Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Tony Tyler. "We have been very impressed by the operating economics of these aircraft, while their high efficiency has resulted in a reduced environmental impact. As we continue to enhance our fleet, the 777-300ER will play a crucial role in our operations in the years to come."
The Boeing 777 is the world's most successful twin-engine, long-haul airplane. The 777-300ER extends the 777 family's span of capabilities, bringing twin-engine efficiency and reliability to the long-range market.
Boeing incorporated several performance enhancements for the 777-300ER, extending its range and payload capabilities. Excellent performance during flight testing, combined with engine efficiency improvements and design changes that reduce drag and airplane weight, contributed to the increased capability.
In addition to Boeing 777s, Cathay Pacific operates 47 747-400s in both passenger and cargo versions. The airline also has ordered 10 Boeing 747-8 Freighters. The highly efficient new cargo airplane will augment the airline's fleet of 25 747 Freighters used to connect Hong Kong to a wide range of international markets.
Sixty-one customers around the world have ordered more than 1,100 777s.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Boeing to Increase 737 Production Rate
SEATTLE, Sept. 16 -- Boeing announced today its production rate for the Next-Generation 737 program will increase to 38 airplanes per month in the second quarter of 2013. This decision comes just months after announcing a rate increase on the company's best-selling commercial jetliner from 31.5 to 35 airplanes per month in early 2012.
"Increasing production is in response to customer demand for this airplane," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh. "Airlines want this innovative airplane sooner to renew their fleets to serve their customers. We made this decision after careful evaluation by Boeing and our supplier partners."
Key factors to the rate decision include the company's current backlog of more than 2,000 Next-Generation 737s, current options that customers are expected to exercise and ongoing sales campaigns. The rate increase is not expected to have a material impact on 2010 financial results.
Next-Generation 737 customers have benefited from continuous innovation of the airplane since its introduction in 1997. The first five airlines will receive the new 737 Boeing Sky Interior by the end of this year. Customers will gain from a two percent reduction in the airplane's fuel consumption by early 2012, through a combination of airframe and engine improvements.
The 2010 Current Market Outlook, Boeing's long-term forecast of air traffic volumes and commercial airplane demand, projects a market of over 21,000 single-aisle airplanes over the next 20 years, accounting for an anticipated 69 percent of the airplanes delivered and an estimated 47 percent of the $3.6 trillion total market value.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this report may be "forward-looking" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expects," "intends," "plans," "projects," "believes," "estimates," "targets," "anticipates," and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions about future events that may not prove to be accurate. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements. As a result, these statements speak to events only as of the date they are made and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by federal securities laws. Specific factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our guidance relating to future financial and operating performance, the effect of economic conditions in the United States and globally, and general industry conditions as they may impact us or our customers, as well as the other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
"Increasing production is in response to customer demand for this airplane," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh. "Airlines want this innovative airplane sooner to renew their fleets to serve their customers. We made this decision after careful evaluation by Boeing and our supplier partners."
Key factors to the rate decision include the company's current backlog of more than 2,000 Next-Generation 737s, current options that customers are expected to exercise and ongoing sales campaigns. The rate increase is not expected to have a material impact on 2010 financial results.
Next-Generation 737 customers have benefited from continuous innovation of the airplane since its introduction in 1997. The first five airlines will receive the new 737 Boeing Sky Interior by the end of this year. Customers will gain from a two percent reduction in the airplane's fuel consumption by early 2012, through a combination of airframe and engine improvements.
The 2010 Current Market Outlook, Boeing's long-term forecast of air traffic volumes and commercial airplane demand, projects a market of over 21,000 single-aisle airplanes over the next 20 years, accounting for an anticipated 69 percent of the airplanes delivered and an estimated 47 percent of the $3.6 trillion total market value.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this report may be "forward-looking" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expects," "intends," "plans," "projects," "believes," "estimates," "targets," "anticipates," and similar expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions about future events that may not prove to be accurate. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements. As a result, these statements speak to events only as of the date they are made and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by federal securities laws. Specific factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our guidance relating to future financial and operating performance, the effect of economic conditions in the United States and globally, and general industry conditions as they may impact us or our customers, as well as the other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
NASA Awards Boeing $1.24B Extension to International Space Station Sustainment Contract
HOUSTON, Sept. 14, 2010 -- Boeing today announced that NASA has awarded the company an extension to the International Space Station (ISS) contract for sustaining engineering. The extension is valued at $1.24 billion over a five-year period.
Under the extension, which begins Oct. 1, Boeing will provide sustaining engineering for hardware and software on the U.S. segment of the ISS and for common hardware and software available to the international partners.
The work also will include:
- management of ISS subsystems
- analytical integration and flight support
- on-orbit engineering support
- monitoring and trending system performance
- anomaly resolution, specialty engineering, and oversight of ongoing maintenance.
Boeing will perform the work at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., and Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., as well as at Boeing sites in Houston, Huntsville, and Huntington Beach, Calif.
"Boeing’s knowledge of the International Space Station allows us to safely fly and operate the station to 2015, set the stage to enable ISS operations until 2020, and potentially extend operations through 2028," said Joy Bryant, Boeing vice president and program manager for ISS. "We are partnering with NASA to ensure the health of the station’s many subsystems in order to pave the way for ground-breaking science and research aboard the laboratories on station in the years ahead."
Besides sustaining engineering, the overall ISS contract also includes purchasing spare components and modifying current systems.
"We proved to NASA, through our technical and program management performance, that we are the right long-term partner for ongoing support to the International Space Station Program," Bryant said.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Boeing Projects $700 Billion Commercial Airplanes Market in North America Region
MONTREAL, Sept. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing forecasts that air carriers in North America will take delivery of about 7,200 new airplanes over the next 20 years at an investment of $700 billion.
New aircraft deliveries in Canada and the United States will be driven largely by the need to retire older, less fuel-efficient single-aisle airplanes and regional jets, as airlines replace them with new-generation, more fuel-efficient models.
"North America is a large, mature market, and we expect passenger traffic for the region to grow at a modest rate of 3.4 percent," said Randy Tinseth, vice president of Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, who released Boeing's 2010 North America market outlook today in Montreal. "The fast-paced lifestyles in Canada and the U.S. require rapid, frequent and reliable coast-to-coast and interregional transportation. Driven by this demand, nearly three-quarters of the new deliveries over the next 20 years will be single-aisle airplanes."
Taking retirements of airplanes into account, the North America fleet will increase from 6,590 airplanes today to about 9,000 airplanes by 2029.
Boeing forecasts that single-aisle airplanes will grow from 56 percent of the total North America fleet today to 71 percent of the fleet by 2029. Airlines are increasingly focusing on airplane age as fuel-thirsty, older airplanes weigh increasingly on earnings. Increased attention to aviation's impact on global climate change also will be a factor in selecting airplanes that produce less carbon emissions.
Newer airplane types such as the Next-Generation 737 provide significant advantages in environmental performance as well as improved capabilities, fuel efficiency and maintenance costs.
According to Tinseth "After several years of losses among the region's air carriers, we're seeing signs of improvement and airlines are beginning to implement fleet renewal plans as they look to the future. To help meet this demand, Boeing Commercial Airplanes will continue to work closely with our more than 500 suppliers and partners in Canada. Boeing imports parts and services from Canada amounting to more than a billion U.S. dollars a year, more than $625 million of which is associated with Boeing Commercial Airplanes."
Twin-aisle fleets will evolve in the region as airlines continue to develop international point-to-point services to a wider range of airport pairs and frequencies. Small- and mid-sized twin-aisle airplanes will increase to represent 19 percent of the North America fleet by 2029.
Within the North America market, Boeing sees a demand for 1,180 new , efficient twin-aisle airplanes such as the 787 Dreamliner. Twin-aisles will account for only 16 percent of total airplane demand in the region over 20 years but will have a proportionally higher share of delivery cost, at 37 percent of the overall investment.
Large airplanes (747-size and larger) will not see significant demand in North America, with only about 40 units (all freighters), or one percent of the total investment.
Boeing also predicts declining demand for regional jets in North America as airlines shift to more fuel-efficient turboprops or larger jetliner models. High fuel prices, intensified competition and the superior efficiencies of larger single-aisles will take a toll on the economics of small regional jets. This category will account for just 4 percent of the total investment for new airplanes, with only 800 new regional jet deliveries over the next 20 years, nearly all for replacement.
(For the purposes of the Boeing forecast, the North America market consists of the U.S. and Canada. Mexico is included in Boeing's forecast for Latin America.)
Boeing, US Navy Flight Testing Distributed Targeting System for Super Hornet
CHINA LAKE, Calif., Sept. 2, 2010 – The Boeing Company and the U.S. Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron VX-31 have begun flight testing a Distributed Targeting System for the F/A -18E/F Super Hornet strike fighter at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division Advanced Weapons Lab in China Lake. The current test phase is scheduled to be completed in November 2011.
The Distributed Targeting System uses onboard hardware and software processing to get precise targeting solutions for Super Hornet aircrews. This enhanced targeting capability is part of the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Network Centric Warfare Upgrades program as well as the F/A-18E/F Flight Plan, which ensures that the Super Hornet remains ahead of known and emerging threats throughout the coming years.
“Distributed Targeting will continue to broaden the Super Hornet’s already sophisticated multi role capability for the warfighter,” said Kory Mathews, F/A-18 and EA-18 Programs vice president for Boeing. “Distributed Targeting is a powerful tool that will provide Super Hornet aircrews with precise targeting capability when identifying and engaging ground target sets. This is another phase of our evolutionary approach to continuous capability enhancement for the Navy’s combat-proven Super Hornet.”
Successful completion of the flight tests will enable the targeting system to transition to operational testing in late 2011. The capability is expected to become fully operational in F/A-18E/F aircraft in 2012.
The Boeing Super Hornet is a multirole aircraft, able to perform virtually every mission in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day and night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter escort, close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses, maritime strike, reconnaissance, forward air control and tanker missions. Boeing has delivered more than 430 F/A-18E/Fs to the U.S. Navy. Every Super Hornet produced has been delivered on or ahead of schedule and on budget.
Monday, August 30, 2010
1st Boeing C-130 AMP Low-Rate Initial Production Aircraft Inducted at Warner Robins Air Logistics Center
ST. LOUIS, Aug. 30, 2010 – The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced the induction of the first C-130 aircraft slated to receive the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) upgrade at Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Ga. This is the first of 20 aircraft to be upgraded during low-rate initial production (LRIP).
“Warner Robins is ready to receive the C-130 and begin installing the AMP kits,” said Tommy Jackson, C-130 AMP deputy program manager for the U.S. Air Force. “Our team has been trained by Boeing, and we are excited to get the first of many aircraft through our line and upgraded.”
Air Force workers at Robins will install glass cockpits that include a head-up display; six flat-panel, full-color displays; and night-vision capability in 10 of the 20 LRIP aircraft. Warner Robins will receive its second C-130 for AMP modification in October.
“The C-130 AMP is production-ready,” said Mahesh Reddy, C-130 AMP program manager for Boeing. “Today marks a very important day for the warfighter. Boeing and the Air Force are one step closer to delivering a fleet of C-130 AMP aircraft.”
Boeing will begin its portion of the installations in early 2012 at its San Antonio facility.
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Contact:
Jennifer Hogan
Maintenance, Modifications and Upgrades
Mobile: 405-818-7859
jennifer.c.hogan@boeing.com
1st Boeing-built GPS IIF Satellite Enters Service with US Air Force
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Aug. 30, 2010 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that the first of 12 Global Positioning System (GPS) IIF satellites the company is building for the U.S. Air Force has entered service. GPS IIF-1 is the newest member of the active 31-satellite GPS constellation, which provides accurate navigation, positioning and timing information to more than 1 billion military and civilian users around the world.
GPS IIF satellites offer new and enhanced capabilities, including a jam-resistant military signal, greater accuracy through improved atomic clock technology, and a protected civilian L5 signal to aid commercial aviation and safety-of-life applications. According to Air Force officials, on-orbit testing shows that the L5 signal meets all requirements. Based on program plans, the signal will remain in development status, broadcasting test data until initial operational capability is declared. The Air Force will send a message about this to GPS users worldwide.
"Putting the first next-generation GPS IIF satellite into operation is a significant step forward for the Air Force and the millions of warfighters and civilians who depend on this vital system," said Air Force Col. Bernard Gruber, commander, GPS Wing. "Now that IIF-1 is operational, military and commercial receivers around the world can begin using the satellite's improved signals to more accurately determine their position."
Launched on May 27, 2010, GPS IIF-1 has undergone three months of comprehensive on-orbit testing to validate its operations with the ground control system, other GPS satellites and a wide range of military and commercial GPS ground receivers. The satellite’s testing regimen was longer and more rigorous than usual because it is the first of the series.
A Boeing space vehicle operations team based in Colorado helped the GPS Wing monitor and evaluate test results as GPS IIF-1 went through many of its first on-orbit operations. With testing complete, the GPS Wing has officially transferred Satellite Control Authority to the Air Force 50th Space Wing and the 2nd Space Operations Squadron, which will operate the satellite on its mission.
"Boeing has built 40 of the 61 GPS satellites launched since 1978, and GPS IIF is a great addition to that long legacy," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems. "These satellites make a difference by adding new levels of power and precision to GPS services. The IIF series will be the backbone of the constellation for the next 12 to 15 years."
Boeing is producing the next 11 GPS IIF satellites using an innovative pulse-line manufacturing approach adapted from the company's aircraft and helicopter assembly lines. The line enables faster, more efficient development of several satellites at once. The company also developed the current GPS ground control infrastructure, called the Operational Control Segment (OCS), which has supported an expanding set of GPS services and capabilities since 2007.
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.
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Contact:
Bob Pickard
Space & Intelligence Systems
Office: 310-364-6125
Mobile: 310-343-1211
robert.pickard3@boeing.com
Boeing Opens New Intelligence Collaboration Center to Counter Global Threats
ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 30, 2010 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced today that it has opened an intelligence collaboration and data analysis center in Northern Virginia to enable the creation and testing of new concepts to counter increasingly sophisticated, global threats to U.S. security.
The innovation center will allow Boeing’s Intelligence Community customers, industry partners, and the scientific and academic communities to brainstorm, test, and field technologies designed to help prevent terrorist attacks like a passenger’s attempt to detonate explosives on a U.S. airliner on Dec. 25, 2009.
"The concepts developed in this center will allow our customers and partners to apply critical technology to their missions," said Roger Krone, president of Boeing Network & Space Systems. "The investments Boeing is making in the center will provide a low-cost conduit for pushing technical solutions into the field with reduced risk and better results."
Boeing’s initial $1.5 million investment in the center will support a focus on sharing and transferring information among disparate organizations, while protecting the integrity of the original data.
Among the technologies to be demonstrated in the new center are Boeing’s Cross Domain Solutions. These incorporate various hardware and software products, such as the Visual Security Operations Console, DataMaster management software and eXMeritus HardwareWall.
“Boeing has been working for several years with the Intelligence Community to deploy proven, high-end computer systems to address data sharing,” said Dewey Houck, director of the Mission Systems subdivision of Boeing Intelligence & Security Systems. “This new center provides a venue for group brainstorming and ‘ideation’ – which means using ideas generated in a collaborative environment to develop solutions that can be quickly implemented to address immediate threats.”
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.
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Contact:
Michelle Roby
Intelligence & Security Systems
Office: 703-414-6335
Mobile: 571-345-6518
michelle.roby@boeing.com
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
6 New Boeing Super Hornets Join Royal Australian Air Force Fleet
Photo credit: Photo courtesy Royal Australian Air Force
Queensland, July 7, 2010 Six new Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornets arrived at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Amberley on July 6, increasing the RAAF's fleet to 11 next generation, multi role air combat aircraft.
The RAAF's first five Super Hornets arrived in Australia on March 26.
Accoriding to Group Capt. Steve Roberton, Officer Commanding 82 Wing "With the arrival of these six new Super Hornets, we will continue to broaden our training as we prepare to achieve Initial Operational Capability later this year. Our aircrews and support teams continue to be very impressed with the Super Hornet's remarkable capabilities, performance and reliability."
Australia announced in March 2007 that it would acquire 24 of the advanced Block II versions of the Super Hornet, all of which are equipped with the Raytheon-built APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. Australia's 24th Super Hornet to be delivered in 2011. The first 11 were delivered ahead of schedule and on budget.
"The Super Hornet's proven technologies including its fully integrated AESA radar, advanced sensors, two-engine design and network centric data sharing environment are providing the RAAF with a broad spectrum of new capabilities," said Carolyn Nichols, Australian Super Hornet program manager for Boeing. "The RAAF Super Hornets enable the two crew members to conduct simultaneous air and ground operations with unprecedented situational awareness."
The Boeing Super Hornet is a multirole aircraft, able to perform virtually every mission in the tactical spectrum, including air superiority, day and night strike with precision-guided weapons, fighter escort, close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses, maritime strike, reconnaissance, forward air control and tanker missions.
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