Boeing Expands Investment in Future Workforce through FIRSTTM

Boeing Expands Investment in Future Workforce through FIRSTTM

National Partnership Fosters Innovation and Increases the Audience for Robotics Competitions

CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced a four-year national partnership with FIRSTTM (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), valued at $4 million, to encourage students to explore careers in math and science. This expanded relationship builds upon an ongoing commitment by Boeing employees to help shape the future of technology innovation in the United States.
FIRST is a not-for-profit organization, founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, to inspire young people to participate in science and technology. Beginning in January, teams of high school students collaborate with adult mentors during an annual six-week period to design, build and program robots from a common kit of parts for competition.
"We view the excitement created by FIRST as an opportunity to positively influence the perception of math and science by young people," said Rick Stephens, Boeing senior vice president of Human Resources and Administration. "For more than 10 years, our employees have inspired participants through their experience applying teamwork and technical skills to creatively solving complex problems. Expanding our involvement with FIRST will help us encourage more students to experiment with technology and make new discoveries as the future workforce of our industry."
LUNACYTM, the 2009 competition challenge, commemorates the 40th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission by staging all events on a low-friction floor to simulate gravity on the moon. During the match, teams recall the discoveries from the first manned mission to land on the moon as they maneuver robots to toss nine-inch "moon rocks" into trailers. FIRST attaches these moving targets to robots designed by the opposing teams as part of the challenge.
"Connecting FIRST teams with Boeing, a company involved in the future of space exploration, will assist us in preparing the next-generation for meeting the economic, environmental and business challenges ahead," said FIRST Founder Dean Kamen. "We are honored Boeing chose FIRST as a partner to help develop its future workforce. The company is committed to producing innovative scientists, engineers and technicians, and these future leaders are in our schools right now at every grade level."
The FIRST Board of Directors recently recognized Boeing as one of nine "Strategic Partners" dedicated to helping the organization further its mission to reach young minds. This designation reflects the company's national, multi-year partnership with FIRST to encourage emerging talent to innovate with math and science.
FIRST is part of a comprehensive investment Boeing makes annually to education initiatives that focus on teacher and leadership development, as well as curriculum enhancements. Projects supported by Boeing reflect a clear set of criteria that emphasize the application of new approaches to solving critical community issues.
About FIRST:
Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, N.H., FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, and engineering. With the support of many of the world's most well-known companies, the not-for-profit organization hosts the FIRST Robotics Competition and FIRST Tech Challenge for high-school students, the FIRST LEGO® League for children 9-14 years old, and the Junior FIRST LEGO League for 6 to 9 year-olds. Since its beginning, FIRST has had a positive impact on students and academic communities. Participating high-school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply for $9.7 million in scholarships from leading universities, colleges, and companies. To learn more about FIRST, go to www.usfirst.org.
About Boeing:
Boeing is the world's leading aerospace company and the largest manufacturer of commercial jetliners and military aircraft combined. Additionally, Boeing designs and manufactures rotorcraft, electronic and defense systems, missiles, satellites, launch vehicles and advanced information and communication systems. As a major service provider to NASA, Boeing operates the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. The company also provides numerous military and commercial airline support services. Boeing has customers in more than 90 countries around the world and is one of the largest U.S. exporters in terms of sales.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA)

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Statement on President’s Iraq Redeployment Plan

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Statement on President’s Iraq Redeployment Plan
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: February 27, 2009

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) released the following statement on President Obama’s plan to redeploy U.S. forces from Iraq:

“I was pleased to attend the White House briefing to learn about the President’s proposal for a safe and responsible drawdown of American forces from Iraq. President Obama has an excellent national security team around him, led by Defense Secretary Robert Gates, National Security Advisor General Jim Jones, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen.

“The President’s plan balances the benefits of reducing our presence in Iraq with the need to do so deliberately and responsibly. By drawing down troops, we will reduce the strain on our military, free up resources for Afghanistan and other priorities, and support the Iraqi government. Redeployment must be done in a way that assures the safety of U.S. forces during the draw down and provides for the return of critical U.S. military equipment. Given America’s enduring national security interests in the region, the President’s plan to gradually shift the mission of American troops will ensure that we have sufficient forces to continue the training of Iraq’s security force, to provide force protection for American personnel and facilities, and to conduct targeted counter-terrorism missions.

“I commend the President for this bold decision on our Iraq policy. As I have argued for years, we must restore our focus to the Afghanistan theater to ensure that no attack on our homeland can be launched from there again. I look forward to working with the administration to ensure the effective implementation of this plan.”

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Afghanistan, HASC (House Armed Services Committee), Iraq

Boeing Submits Proposal for Altair Lunar Lander Study Contract

Boeing Submits Proposal for Altair Lunar Lander Study Contract

HOUSTON, Feb. 27, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], through its Space Exploration division, submitted a proposal to NASA today for Altair lunar lander design support. NASA is expected to award multiple contracts this spring.
The lunar lander, part of NASA's Constellation program, will launch aboard the Ares V heavy-lift rocket and provide astronauts with life support and a base for exploration missions. Altair will also return the crew to the Orion spacecraft that will transport the astronauts back to Earth.
The Altair Conceptual Design Contract calls for NASA-directed engineering tasks to support evaluation of conceptual designs, maturation of the vehicle design, and preparation of products for system-requirements and system-definition reviews.
"Boeing is uniquely positioned to provide great design support now, as well as to support Altair development, test and evaluation when the time comes," said Keith Reiley, lunar lander project manager for Boeing. "Our ability to transition a skilled space shuttle work force ensures we can distribute the necessary expertise where it is needed as NASA transitions from the shuttle program to Constellation. We plan to support NASA with a local core team, enterprisewide specialty engineering experts, and a range of suppliers, including small and innovative high-tech companies."
The Altair lunar lander is envisioned with two stages: The descent stage will house the majority of the fuel, power supplies, and breathing oxygen for the crew. The ascent stage will house the astronauts, life-support equipment, and fuel for the ascent stage motor and steering rockets. The lander will carry a crew of four and be able to stay on the moon for up to six months. Altair will be capable of landing with 15 to 17 metric tons of dedicated cargo. The first crewed flight is scheduled for 2020.
NASA issued its request for proposal on Jan. 28 and will manage the Altair Conceptual Design Contract out of Johnson Space Center in Houston.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), NASA (National Aeronautics & Space Administration)

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of March 2 - 6, 2009

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of March 2 - 6, 2009

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: Feb. 27, 2009

The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of March 2 - 6, 2009:


Tuesday, March 3, 2009 – 10:00 am – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Military Personnel Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on recruiting, retention and end strength overview.

Witnesses:

Panel 1:
Dr. Curtis Gilroy
Director, Accessions Policy
Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness

Lieutenant General Michael D. Rochelle, USA
Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1
Headquarters, U.S. Army

Vice Admiral Mark E. Ferguson, III, USN
Chief of Naval Personnel
Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Total Force

Lieutenant General Ronald S. Coleman, USMC
Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs
Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

Lieutenant General Richard Y. Newton, III, USAF
Deputy Chief Staff, Manpower & Personnel
Headquarters, U.S. Air Force

Panel 2:
Lieutenant General Clyde A. Vaughn, ARNG
Director, Army National Guard

Lieutenant General Jack C. Stultz, USAR
Chief, U.S. Army Reserve and Commanding General
U.S. Army Reserve Command

Vice Admiral Dirk J. Debbink, USNR
Chief, Navy Reserve

Lieutenant General John W. Bergman, USMCR
Commander, Marine Forces Reserve

Lieutenant General Harry M. Wyatt, III, ANG
Director, Air National Guard

Lieutenant General Charles E. Stenner Jr., AFR
Chief, U.S. Air Force Reserve

Rear Admiral Daniel R. May, USCG
Chief, Coast Guard Reserve Forces


Tuesday, March 3, 2009 – 1:00 pm – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Readiness Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Department of Defense fuel demand management at forward-deployed locations and operational energy initiatives.

Witnesses:

Mr. Alan R. Shaffer
Acting Director
Defense Research and Engineering
U.S. Department of Defense

Mr. William M. Solis
Director
Defense Capabilities and Management
U.S. Government Accountability Office


Tuesday, March 3, 2009 -3:30 pm – 2212 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Special Operations Forces: Challenges and Opportunities.

Witnesses:

Mr. Robert Martinage
Senior Fellow
Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessment

Roger Carstens
Non-Resident Fellow
Center for a New American Security


Thursday, March 5, 2009 – 10:00 am – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to receive testimony on combating piracy on the high seas.

Witnesses:

Vice Admiral William E. Gortney, USN
Commander
U.S. Naval Forces Central Command

TBA


Thursday, March 5, 2009 –1:00 pm – 2212 Rayburn – Open

The Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Can DOD Travelers Book a Trip? Defense Travel System Update.

Witnesses:

Ms. Pam Mitchell
Director, Defense Travel Management Office
Department of Defense

Mr. David Fisher
Director, Business Transformation Agency
Department of Defense

Mr. Asif Khan
Director, Financial Management and Assurance
U.S. Government Accountability Office

Dr. William B. Moore
Vice President
LMI Government Consulting


Friday, March 6, 2009 –10:00 am – 2212 Rayburn – Open

The Military Personnel Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Sexual Assault in the Military: Prevention.

Witnesses:

Panel One

Ms. Carolyn Collins
Program Manager
Sexual Harassment and Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program
United States Army

Mr. Raymond Bruneau
Manager
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program
United States Marine Corps

Ms. Katherine Robertson, LCSW
Deputy Manager, Counseling, Advocacy and Prevention Program
Commander, Navy Installation Command
United States Navy

Ms. Charlene M. Bradley
Assistant Deputy for Force Management Integration
Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Manpower and Reserve Affairs)
United States Air Force

Panel Two

Dr. Kaye Whitley
Director
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO)
Department of Defense

John D. Foubert, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Program Coordinator
College Student Development Master's Program
Oklahoma State University

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HASC (House Armed Services Committee)

Boeing Transfers 3rd KC-767J Tanker to Japanese Partner Itochu

Boeing Transfers 3rd KC-767J Tanker to Japanese Partner Itochu

WICHITA, Kan., Feb. 27, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] on Feb. 25 transferred the third KC-767J tanker to the company's Japanese partner, Itochu Corp., for delivery to the Japan Ministry of Defense (MOD) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). When Itochu officially delivers the aircraft in March, it will join two KC-767J tankers that Japan received in 2008.
The KC-767J departed Boeing's tanker modification center in Wichita on a 12-hour, nonstop flight to Gifu, Japan, near Nagoya. Delivery to the MOD and JASDF will follow a final formal review and in-country acceptance processes.
"This new KC-767J will be a valuable addition to Japan's tanker fleet as the country performs vital missions in the Asia-Pacific region," said Dave Bowman, Boeing vice president and general manager, Tanker Programs. "The recent completion of a yearlong technical evaluation and the on-time, on-cost delivery of this third tanker bring the JASDF one step closer to assigning these new assets to active air wings in Japan."
Japan has ordered four convertible tanker/freighter KC-767Js, which provide flexibility in carrying cargo or passengers while maintaining their primary role as aerial refueling tankers. The KC-767 tanker, a military derivative of the proven 767-200 commercial airplane, features Boeing's advanced aerial refueling boom and Remote Aerial Refueling Operator II system.
Boeing is scheduled to transfer the fourth Japan tanker to Itochu in December for delivery to the MOD in the first quarter of 2010.
Boeing also has two KC-767 tankers in comprehensive flight test for the Italian Air Force (ITAF) and is performing modification work on two additional ITAF tankers. The first tanker for Italy is scheduled for delivery later this year.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), KC-767 Tanker, Japan

Boeing Receives NASA's George M. Low Award for Quality and Performance

Boeing Receives NASA's George M. Low Award for Quality and Performance

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla., Feb. 26, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], through its Space Exploration division and Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services (CAPPS) program, on Feb. 25 received the George M. Low Award, NASA's premier quality and performance honor. The award recognizes large and small businesses that demonstrate excellence and outstanding technical and managerial achievements on NASA-related contracts.
"We are honored to receive this award from NASA in recognition of our team's performance and commitment to making business process improvements," said Mark Jager, CAPPS program manager for Boeing. "We are working at all levels to improve program quality, cost and timetables in support of NASA's mission."
The CAPPS program provides high-quality ground processing services to ensure payloads perform flawlessly in space. The strong performance of this program is demonstrated by the outstanding on-orbit performance of the International Space Station (ISS), on-time delivery rate of major payload elements, and consistently excellent performance ratings from NASA.
Boeing has processed every major payload flown on space shuttle missions since the beginning of the program, including multimillion-dollar satellites, interplanetary spacecraft, experiment modules and ISS elements.
The George M. Low Award program honors Low's career and achievements in space science, aeronautics, technology and education. As part of the U.S. space program, Low provided management and direction for the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and advanced manned missions programs.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), NASA (National Aeronautics & Space Administration)

CNO Announces Flag Officer Assignments

CNO Announces Flag Officer Assignments
Story Number: NNS090226-10
Release Date: 2/26/2009 4:34:00 PM
From the Department of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead announced Feb. 26 the following assignments:

Rear Adm. Christine M. Bruzek-Kohler will be assigned as commander, Navy Medicine West / commander, Naval Medical Center / director of the Nurse Corps, San Diego, Calif. Bruzek-Kohler is currently assigned as deputy chief, medical operations, M3/5, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery / director of the Nurse Corps, Washington, D.C.

Rear Adm. Christine S. Hunter will be assigned as deputy director, Tricare Management Activity, Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs, Washington, D.C. Hunter is currently serving as commander, Navy Medicine West / commander, Naval Medical Center, San Diego.

Rear Adm. (lower half) Kendall L. Card, who has been selected for promotion to rear admiral, will be assigned as director, warfare integration, N6F/N83, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C. Card is currently assigned as commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 3, San Diego.

Rear Adm. (lower half) Patrick Driscoll will be assigned as commander, Carrier Strike Group 10, Norfolk, Va. Driscoll is currently serving as deputy director, Navy Quadrennial Defense Review, N09B, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C.

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Appointments, USN (US Navy)

Future Combat Systems Program Completes Integrated Mission Test-1

Future Combat Systems Program Completes Integrated Mission Test-1

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 26, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Science Applications International Corp. [NYSE: SAI], together the Lead Systems Integrator for the U.S. Army's Future Combat Systems (FCS) program, have successfully completed Integrated Mission Test-1 (IMT-1), verifying that the integration of FCS systems and Battle Command software is proceeding as planned.
The test, conducted in January at the FCS Common Control Node at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., caps more than two years of software development, integration and testing involving nearly every FCS Integrated Product Team and One Team Partner, as well as soldiers from the Army Evaluation Task Force (AETF) at Fort Bliss, Texas. The AETF is evaluating and testing FCS capabilities for incremental fielding and the development of full FCS Brigade Combat Teams.
"Integrated Mission Test-1 marks another milestone toward the program's goal of allowing soldiers to operate in an information-rich battlespace where threats can be identified more rapidly, understood more fully and targeted more precisely," said Boeing Vice President and FCS Program Manager Gregg Martin.
The test involved nearly 400 computers, 30 unique mock-ups of FCS Manned Ground Vehicles, 45 soldiers, and more than 120 industry, Army and other government personnel.
During the test, soldiers crewed mock-ups of Manned Ground Vehicles during simulated operational missions that used advanced simulations of FCS systems and network capabilities. The purpose was to validate early prototypes of FCS Battle Command and System software by soliciting soldier feedback and analyzing how they executed the missions. Feedback was also obtained on FCS Warfighter Machine Interface displays, which provided soldiers with a common operating picture of the operational environment as they conducted simulated operational tasks.
"During this integrated mission test, soldiers from the AETF worked with our engineers on the design and functionality of FCS Battle Command software as they executed tactical missions in a simulated, contemporary operational environment cluttered with military and civilian vehicles as well as vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices," said Rick Greenwell, Boeing FCS director for Integrated Phases, Simulation and Test. "Through participation in these exercises and their relevant combat experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, the soldiers provided invaluable recommendations on everything from FCS vehicle ergonomics to how we display and move information within the Battle Command network."
The FCS program consists of eight new Manned Ground Vehicles, unmanned air and ground vehicles, precision weapon systems, and advanced tactical and urban sensors that are connected by a state-of-the-art wireless network. Working together, these systems will help soldiers share real-time information across the battlefield. Overall, FCS will provide soldiers vastly increased situational awareness, survivability and lethality, ensuring they can take the fight to the enemy before the enemy has time to react. More information on FCS is available at https://www.fcs.army.mil/.
SAIC is a FORTUNE 500 scientific, engineering and technology applications company that uses its deep domain knowledge to solve problems of vital importance to the nation and the world, in national security, energy and the environment, critical infrastructure and health. The company's approximately 44,000 employees serve customers in the U.S. Department of Defense, the intelligence community, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, other U.S. government civil agencies and selected commercial markets. SAIC had annual revenues of $8.9 billion for its fiscal year ended Jan. 31, 2008.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), FCS (Future Combat System), SAIC

Boeing Delivers 1st CH-47F Chinook Manufactured Under Multiyear Contract Award

Boeing Delivers 1st CH-47F Chinook Manufactured Under Multiyear Contract Award

RIDLEY TOWNSHIP, Pa., Feb. 26, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced delivery of the first CH-47F Chinook manufactured under a five-year U.S. Army contract awarded in August 2008. The helicopter will be assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, N.C., the fourth unit scheduled to be equipped under the Army's ongoing Chinook modernization program.
"The timely delivery of our first multiyear CH-47F helicopter signifies the continued commitment of the U.S. Army and its Team Chinook partners to keep pace with our soldiers as they continue to serve this great nation," said Lt. Col. Thomas Todd, CH-47F product manager. "Boeing has once again stepped up and proved it is a steadfast partner in our efforts to keep America safe and strong."
"The Boeing Company has shown its commitment to this important program by applying company funds and working in advance of the contract award to meet the delivery schedule," said Tommy Filler, CH-47F program director for Boeing. "It takes a dedicated group, including the U.S. Army customer, suppliers, and Boeing teammates, to achieve this milestone event. Our performance is measured daily and our commitment to 'Soldiers First' sets high expectations for first-time quality, on-time delivery and customer satisfaction."
Under the multiyear contract, Boeing will deliver 24 aircraft in 2009 and then begin a graduated delivery rate through successive years, culminating in 2015. The multiyear contract also contains priced options for an additional 24 aircraft, for a total of up to 215 Chinooks.
The 82nd Airborne has a long history of using the Chinook in combat, resupply and transport operations. The unit is simulating these missions in training with the new F-model aircraft.
Built at the Boeing Rotorcraft Systems facility in Ridley Township, the CH-47F helicopter features a newly designed, modernized airframe, a Rockwell Collins Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) cockpit and a BAE Digital Advanced Flight Control System (DAFCS).
The CAAS greatly improves aircrew situational awareness, while DAFCS provides dramatically improved flight-control capabilities through the entire flight envelope, significantly improved performance, and safety in the harshest of environments.
CAAS also incorporates an advanced digital map display and a data transfer system that allows storing of preflight and mission data. Improved survivability features include the Common Missile Warning and Improved Countermeasure Dispenser systems.
Powered by two 4,733-horsepower Honeywell engines, the new CH-47F can reach speeds greater than 175 mph and transport more than 21,000 pounds. The CH-47F, with the Robertson Aviation Extended Range Fuel System, has a mission radius of more than 400 nautical miles.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), Chinook Helicopter

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Statement on President’s FY10 Budget Outline

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Statement on President’s FY10 Budget Outline
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: February 25, 2009

Skelton Statement on President’s FY10 Budget Outline

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) released the following statement on the FY 2010 federal budget outline President Obama sent to Congress today:

“The President’s budget outline provides Congress with a preview of the administration’s budget proposal for the coming fiscal year. While we will closely examine the President’s full budget proposal when it becomes available in the coming weeks, at first look I believe the $533.7 billion requested for defense is a reasonable level which will allow us to provide the resources needed to support our troops and keep America safe.

“I am very pleased that the President’s budget outline includes funding to increase the size of the Army and Marine Corps. Increasing the size of the force is essential to reduce the strain our service members are bearing as a result of our commitments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other places around the world.

“The President’s decision to improve the transparency of Iraq and Afghanistan war funding requests is also a very positive development. Along with many of my colleagues, I have called for the inclusion of predictable war costs in the regular budget request to ensure proper oversight of those expenses. This budget is a step in the right direction and should lead to a substantial improvement in the way we fund this part of the Pentagon’s budget.

“All Americans are aware of the serious economic challenges our country is experiencing. Now more than ever, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of the public purse. But our first responsibility is to keep the American people safe, and defense spending should match the level required to do that.”

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HASC (House Armed Services Committee), US DoD (Department of Defense), Defense Budget

SECDEF Announces Flag Officer Nominations

SECDEF Announces Flag Officer Nominations
Story Number: NNS090225-30
Release Date: 2/25/2009 3:55:00 PM
From the Department of Defense

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates announced Feb. 25 that the President has made the following nominations:

Navy Reserve Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael W. Broadway has been nominated for appointment to the grade of rear admiral while serving as commander, Navy Reserve Intelligence Command, Warner Robins, Ga.

Navy Reserve Rear Adm. (lower half) Sean F. Crean has been nominated for appointment to the grade of rear admiral while serving as deputy assistant secretary of the Navy (acquisition management), Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D.C.

Navy Reserve Rear Adm. (lower half) Patrick E. McGrath has been nominated for appointment to the grade of rear admiral while serving as commander, Naval Air Force Reserve/vice commander, Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, San Diego.

Navy Reserve Rear Adm. (lower half) John G. Messerschmidt has been nominated for appointment to the grade of rear admiral while serving as commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command, New Orleans, La.

Navy Reserve Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael M. Shatynski has been nominated for appointment to the grade of rear admiral while serving as reserve deputy commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, San Diego.

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Appointments, USN (US Navy)

Boeing Delivers 1st FAB-T Engineering Development Model to US Air Force

Boeing Delivers 1st FAB-T Engineering Development Model to US Air Force

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., Feb. 25, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the first Family of Advanced Beyond line-of-sight Terminals (FAB-T) Engineering Development Model (EDM) to the U.S. Air Force B-2 Program. Boeing and the Air Force will use the EDM to initiate platform integration and test activities.

Over the next few months, additional EDM units will be delivered to undergo integration and flight testing on a Boeing 707 test aircraft operated by the Air Force and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Lincoln Labs, and on an operational RC-135 aircraft at Majors Field in Greenville, Texas.

"The delivery of the first FAB-T EDM terminal to the Air Force B-2 integration program is a significant milestone for this nuclear command and control terminal program," said Brig. Gen. Samuel A. Greaves, commander of the Military Satellite Communications Systems Wing at the Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif. "Congratulations to the FAB-T team on this first step toward providing a new communications capability to the warfighter that is critical to the nation's defense."

A transformational communications program led by the Air Force, the FAB-T system will provide a multi-mission-capable family of satellite communication terminals to strategic command and control forces. The airborne and ground-based terminals will communicate with multiple satellites and enable information to be exchanged between ground, air and space platforms.

"The delivery of the FAB-T terminal by the Boeing team and its Air Force counterparts is an important step toward providing protected satellite communications capability to the United States' strategic command and control enterprise," said Nan Bouchard, Boeing C3 Networks vice president and general manager. "Boeing is very proud of the team's effort at achieving this major milestone."

The system includes software-defined radios, antennas and user interfaces that will enable the user to host numerous waveforms that accommodate data rates in excess of the current SATCOM capability.
FAB-T systems are compatible with the existing MILSTAR Extremely High Frequency and the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) communications satellite constellations, providing a seamless transition as the AEHF constellation replaces MILSTAR.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), Space systems

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Introduces “Year of the Military Family” Resolution

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Introduces “Year of the Military Family” Resolution
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: February 25, 2009

Skelton Introduces “Year of the Military Family” Resolution

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) introduced legislation today which would urge the President to designate 2009 as the “Year of the Military Family.” H. Con. Res. 60 has 50 original cosponsors.

“There are more than 2.9 million family members of Active Duty and Reserve Component forces whose support makes possible their loved ones’ military service. Military families often face unique challenges, particularly when family members are deployed away from home. Our resolution calls upon the President to designate 2009 as the ‘Year of the Military Family’ to express appreciation and recognize the contributions military families’ make for the benefit of our national security,” said Skelton.

A copy of the resolution and a list of cosponsors are attached.


ORIGINAL COSPONSORS OF H. CON. RES. 60, YEAR OF THE MILITARY FAMILY RESOLUTION

Ike Skelton (D-MO)
John McHugh (R-NY)
Susan Davis (D-CA)
Joe Wilson (R-SC)
Jeff Miller (R-FL)
Robert A. Brady (D-PA)
Joe Courtney (D-CT)
Robert E. Andrews (D-NJ)
Solomon P. Ortiz (D-TX)
Madeleine Bordallo (D-GU)
Henry “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA)
Gene Taylor (D-MS)
David Loebsack (D-IA)
Silvestre Reyes (D-TX)
Jim Marshall (D-GA)
Eric J. J. Massa (D-NY)
Adam Smith (D-WA)
John M. Spratt, Jr. (D-SC)
Joe Sestak (D-PA)
Roscoe G. Bartlett (R-MD)
Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH)
Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-CA)
Loretta Sanchez (D-CA)
Neil Abercrombie (D-HI)
Walter Jones (R-NC)
W. Todd Akin (R-MO)
Patrick Murphy (D-PA)
K. Michael Conaway (R-TX)
Rick Larsen (D-WA)
Vic Snyder (D-AR)
Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ)
Larry Kissell (D-NC)
Jim Langevin (D-RI)
Kendrick B. Meek (D-FL)
Chellie Pingree (D-ME)
Ellen O. Tauscher (D-CA)
Frank M. Kratovil, Jr. (D-MD)
John Kline (R-MN)
Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA)
Mike Coffman (R-CO)
Doug Lamborn (R-CO)
Duncan D. Hunter (R-CA)
Niki Tsongas (D-MA)
Mary Fallin (R-OK)
John Fleming (R-LA)
Thomas J. Rooney (R-FL)
Mike McIntyre (D-NC)
G.K. Butterfield (D-NC)
Danny K. Davis (D-IL)
Jane Harman (D-CA)
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GAO: DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS: Charting a Course for Improved Missile Defense testing

DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS: Charting a Course for Improved Missile Defense Testing
February 25, 2009

Highlights of GAO-09-403T, a testimony before the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, Committee on Armed Services, House of Representatives
The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has spent about $56 billion and will spend about $50 billion more through 2013 to develop a Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS).

This testimony is based on two reviews GAO was directed to conduct in 2008. In addition to our annual review assessing the annual cost, testing, schedule, and performance progress MDA made in developing BMDS, we have also reported on MDA’s targets program. In this testimony we discuss (1) the productivity of MDA’s recent test program, (2) the consequences of the testing shortfalls, and (3) key factors that should be considered as MDA revises its approach to testing.

GAO assessed contractor cost, schedule, and performance; tests completed; and the assets fielded during 2008. GAO also reviewed pertinent sections of the U.S. Code, acquisition policy, and the activities of a new missile defense board.

What GAO Recommends
We have previously made recommendations to improve the MDA’s testing and targets programs that include establishing a revised business case for providing targets for a robust flight test program as well as adding sufficient scope to tests to enable an assessment of the BMDS’ suitability and effectiveness, but MDA only partially agreed. We also have a draft report that is currently with DOD for comment that includes additional recommendations regarding testing.

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Boeing Appoints New Washington, D.C. Corporate Office Leaders

Boeing Appoints New Washington, D.C. Corporate Office Leaders

David Morrison, Sean McCormack join Boeing to lead lobbying, communications

Leo Brooks to head national security and space group

CHICAGO, Feb. 25, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has announced three new executives for key roles within its Washington, D.C., Government Operations office.
David H. Morrison, most recently a principal at the Podesta Group, will join Boeing as vice president, Government Operations, and Sean I. McCormack will join the company from the U.S. State Department, taking on responsibilities as vice president, Communications.
In addition, Brigadier General (Retired) Leo A. Brooks, Jr., becomes vice president, National Security and Space. He moves from the company's Integrated Defense Systems business unit, where he had been vice president, Business Development, Army Systems.
Morrison and Brooks, whose positions are new, will report to Tim Keating, senior vice president, Government Operations. McCormack will report to Tom Downey, senior vice president, Communications. Phil Ruter, currently vice president of legislative affairs, moves to a new position as chief of staff for Keating.
"David, Sean and Leo are incredibly accomplished and well-respected leaders," said Keating. "David's budget and appropriations process experience is unparalleled. Sean is a seasoned pro in media relations and issues management. And Leo knows our government customers and their programs exceedingly well. We look forward to having their energy, enthusiasm and strong work ethic on our team," he said.
Morrison, 51, will serve as the company's chief lobbyist covering all appropriations and authorizations matters. At the Podesta Group, he chaired the National Security and International Policy practice. Previously, he served as staff director for the House Appropriations Committee's Defense Subcommittee where he was responsible for developing legislation to fund all U.S. military activities, and national foreign and defense intelligence programs.
In addition, he served as the Deputy Associate Director for National Security at the Office of Management and Budget, and as a professional staff member on the Senate Appropriations Committee's Defense Subcommittee. In these roles he had broad oversight responsibilities for Department of Defense operations, investment, and intelligence programs. He has received numerous awards for his work, including the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Medal.
McCormack, 44, most recently was assistant secretary for public affairs at the U.S. State Department, reporting to former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. He was responsible for the State Department's global communications strategies, including media relations, state and local government relations, and digital media outreach. In addition, he served the department as chief spokesman.
From 2001-2005, McCormack was deputy White House press secretary and National Security Council spokesman. In that role, he was responsible for National Security Council media relations and prepared Rice for her testimony before the 9-11 Commission when she was National Security Advisor.
Brooks, 51, becomes Boeing's senior corporate liaison with the Pentagon, NASA, and the Department of Homeland Security. He joined Boeing in 2006 after a 27-year Army career where he earned the rank of brigadier general and commanded units in virtually every echelon of the Army. His last Army assignment was as the Vice Director of the Army Staff, Office of the Chief of Staff, in the Pentagon. He also served as the 68th Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and is a West Point graduate.
In his Boeing Army Systems business development role, Brooks represented the company's viewpoints to policy and analysis organizations while also working within Boeing to provide strategic guidance on current issues and help position the company to compete for and win new business.
McCormack joins Boeing Feb. 27; Morrison will start March 6. Brooks began his assignment earlier this month. All three will be based in the company's Rosslyn, Va., office.
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Boeing Delivers Two Qatar Airways 777-200LRs in February

Boeing Delivers Two Qatar Airways 777-200LRs in February

Middle East Carrier has a total of 27 777s on order

EVERET, Wash., Feb. 24, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] yesterday delivered the second of eight 777-200LRs (Longer Range) jetliners that have been ordered by Qatar Airways. The airplane departed Paine Field in Everett in the early afternoon on a shuttle flight of more than 14 hours to its new operational base at Doha International Airport. Qatar Airways has ordered 17 777-300ERs (Extended Range), five of which have been delivered, and two 777 Freighters for future delivery.

Qatar Airway's newest 777-200LR is shown here during flight tests taking off from Paine Field in Everett, Wash., earlier this month. The first Boeing 777-200LR to join the airline's fleet arrived in Doha Feb. 8.
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House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Visits Iwo Jima

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Visits Iwo Jima
Ike Skelton, Chairman

Skelton Visits Iwo Jima

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) visited the Pacific island of Iwo Jima during a Congressional delegation trip last week. The U.S. Marine invasion of Iwo Jima in February 1945 led to one of World War II’s most important battles.

“I was deeply moved by our visit to Iwo Jima and the Mount Suribachi Memorial, where our delegation placed a wreath to pay tribute to those who fought and died during the battle. In the words of Admiral Chester Nimitz, ‘Among the Americans who served on Iwo Jima, uncommon valor was a common virtue.’

“We were also fortunate to tour the battlefield guided by a U.S. Naval Officer and a Japanese Naval Officer. After seeing the invasion beaches and the tunnels of Iwo Jima, I am even more in awe of the sacrifices and the achievements of the U.S. Marine Corps,” said Skelton.

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House Armed Services Committee: SKELTON LEADS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO HAWAII, GUAM, SOUTH KOREA, AND JAPAN

House Armed Services Committee: SKELTON LEADS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO HAWAII, GUAM, SOUTH KOREA, AND JAPAN
Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: February 23, 2009

SKELTON LEADS CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION TO HAWAII, GUAM, SOUTH KOREA, AND JAPAN

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) led a 10-member bipartisan Congressional delegation trip to Hawaii, Guam, South Korea, and Japan. The 8-day trip focused on the proposed relocation of Marines from Okinawa, Japan, to Guam; allowed Members to conduct oversight of the military buildup on Guam; and provided an opportunity to meet with American and South Korean officials about the basing and readiness issues on the Korean peninsula.

House Members in Skelton’s delegation included Congressman Roscoe Bartlett (R-MD), Congressman Solomon Ortiz (D-TX), Congressman Howard “Buck” McKeon (R-CA), Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC), Congressman Phil Gingrey (R-GA), Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (D-GU), Congressman Mike Conaway (R-TX), Congressman Hank Johnson (D-GA), and Congressman Doug Lamborn (R-CO). Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-HI) and Congresswoman Mazie Hirono (D-HI) joined the delegation for the Hawaii portion of the trip.

“The United States has many critical strategic interests in the Pacific, but these interests do not always receive the attention they deserve, most recently because our focus has been trained on Iraq and Afghanistan. I was pleased that so many of my colleagues joined me to learn more about current security issues facing the United States and our allies in the Pacific region,” said Skelton.

“One of the major issues facing the U.S. military in the Pacific concerns the proposed relocation of up to 8,000 U.S. Marines from bases in Okinawa, Japan, to Guam and the associated movement of the remaining 10,000 Marines within Okinawa. We need to ensure that we have a full understanding of the practical as well as the strategic implications of this proposed realignment. This trip, which highlighted the benefits expected from this realignment but also identified questions that still must be answered, will serve as the starting point for detailed oversight during the coming legislative season,” said Skelton.

In Hawaii, the delegation was briefed by Admiral Timothy J. Keating, Commander of U.S. Pacific Command.

In Guam, the delegation toured military facilities and was briefed by U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force officials. The delegation also met with the Governor Felix P. Camacho of Guam, members of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, and students at the University of Guam.

In South Korea, the delegation met with General Walter L. Sharp, Commander of U.S. Forces Korea. The delegation also had an office call with the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Myung-bak, and met with Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan, Defense Minister Lee Sang Hee, and the Chairman of the Korean National Assembly’s Defense Committee, Kim Hak-Song.

In Okinawa, Japan, the delegation met with U.S. military officers, U.S. Consular officials, and with the Governor of Okinawa Prefecture Hirakazu Nakaima to discuss the proposed realignment of Marines from Japan.

On two occasions, the delegation paid tribute to those who fought and died during World War II by laying memorial wreaths at The War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam and at the Mount Suribachi Memorial on the island of Iwo Jima, site of the historic U.S. Marine invasion.

“It was a deeply moving experience to visit the World War II memorials on Guam and Iwo Jima. Our nation must never forget the sacrifices of our service members and the Pacific Islanders who fought against tyranny during one of history’s most brutal wars. I consider it a privilege to pay our respects to these heroes,” said Skelton.

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House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of February 23 - 27, 2009

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of February 23 - 27, 2009

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: Feb. 18, 2009

Tuesday, February 24, 2009 – 9:00 am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Readiness Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Acquisition and Disposal of Military Lands: Department of Defense's Real Property Management Challenges in the 21st Century.

Witnesses:

Mr. Wayne Arny
Deputy Under Secretary of Defense
Installations and Environment

The Honorable Keith Eastin
Assistant Secretary of the Army
Installations and Environment

The Honorable B. J. Penn
Assistant Secretary of the Navy
Installations and Environment

Mr. Kevin W. Billings
Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force
Installations, Environment and Logistics


Wednesday, February 25, 2009 –10:00 am – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Joint Air and Land Forces and Seapower and Expeditionary Forces Subcommittees will meet to receive testimony on U.S. Transportation Command’s (USTRANSCOM) airlift, sealift, and surface lift programs.

Witness:

General Duncan J. McNabb, USAF
U.S. Transportation Command


Wednesday, February 25, 2009 –1:00 pm – 2212 Rayburn – Open

The Strategic Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the future of missile defense testing.

Witnesses:

Panel 1:
The Honorable Dr. Charles E. McQueary
Director, Operational Test and Evaluation
U.S. Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Patrick O’Reilly, USA
Director, Missile Defense Agency
U.S. Department of Defense

Major General Roger Nadeau, USA
Commanding General, Test and Evaluation Command
U.S. Army

Panel 2:
The Honorable Dr. Philip E. Coyle
Former Director, Operational Test and Evaluation
U.S. Department of Defense

Mr. Paul L. Francis
Director, Acquisition and Sourcing Management
U.S. Government Accountability Office

Mr. Donald C. Mitchell
Chief Engineer for Ballistic Missile Defense
Air and Missile Defense Systems Department
Applied Physics Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University


Wednesday, February 25, 2009 –3:00 pm – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Military Personnel Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on beneficiary and advocacy overview.

Witnesses:

Colonel Peter J. Duffy, USA, (Ret.)
Deputy Legislative Director
National Guard Association of the United States

Master Sergeant Michael P. Cline, USA, (Ret.)
Executive Director
Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the U.S.

Ms. Kathleen B. Moakler
Director, Government Relations
National Military Family Association

Colonel Steve Strobridge, USAF, (Ret.)
Director, Government Relations
Military Officers Association of America

Mr. F. Jed Becker
Chairman
Armed Forces Marketing Council

Ms. Perri Brackett
Chairwoman
American Logistics Association

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GAO: DEFENSE MANAGEMENT: DOD Needs to Increase Attention on Fuel Demand Management at Forward-Deployed Locations

Highlights of GAO-09-300, a report to the Subcommittee on Readiness, Committee on Armed Services, House of Representatives

The Department of Defense (DOD) relies heavily on petroleum-based fuel to sustain its forward-deployed locations—particularly those that are not connected to local power grids. While weapon platforms require large amounts of fuel, DOD reports that the single largest battlefield fuel consumer is generators, which provide power for base support activities such as cooling, heating, and lighting. Transporting fuel to forward-deployed locations presents an enormous logistics burden and risk, including exposing fuel truck convoys to attack. GAO was asked to address DOD’s

(1) efforts to reduce fuel demand at forward-deployed locations and

(2) approach to managing fuel demand at these locations. This review focused on locations within Central Command’s area of responsibility. GAO visited DOD locations in Kuwait and Djibouti to learn about fuel reduction efforts and challenges facing these locations.

What GAO Recommends
GAO recommends that DOD establish an effective approach to managing fuel demand at forward-deployed locations by developing fuel demand management requirements; designating the new director of operational energy as the lead proponent of fuel demand management at forward-deployed locations; addressing demand management shortcomings in DOD’s energy strategy; and establishing military department oversight of fuel demand issues. DOD generally concurred with the recommendations.

http://bit.ly/gJmek

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Boeing to Demonstrate Vigilare Air Battle Management System at IDEX 2009

Boeing to Demonstrate Vigilare Air Battle Management System at IDEX 2009

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 20, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] will demonstrate the Vigilare integrated air battle management command-and-control (C2) system Feb. 22-26 at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The event will mark Vigilare's first appearance at an international trade show outside Australia, the country for which the system is currently in development. Boeing plans to highlight a variety of defense and situational-awareness capabilities at IDEX.

"Boeing is excited to show potential customers from the Middle East and around the world a wide spectrum of our defense products and capabilities," said Jeff Johnson, vice president of Business Development - Middle East and Africa, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. "We believe that whether they choose the C-17 for airborne humanitarian lift or Vigilare technologies and 737 Airborne Early Warning and Control for situational awareness, we can meet their regional defense and security requirements."

Vigilare is an integrated C2 system that combines input from a range of platforms and sensors for wide area surveillance and air battlespace management. The program is on schedule to deliver to Australia in December 2010.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing Delivers First 777 Freighter to Air France

Boeing Delivers First 777 Freighter to Air France

EVERETT, Wash., Feb. 19, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today celebrated the delivery of the company's first 777 Freighter to launch customer Air France in a ceremony at the Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour near Paine Field. The contractual delivery and airplane departure are scheduled for Friday.

"Our new Boeing 777 Freighter will operate very well with our 747-400ER Freighters," said Air France Executive Vice President for New Aircraft & Corporate Fleet Planning Pierre Vellay. "Also, we will benefit from the airplane's commonality with our proven 777 passenger fleet and improve our cargo efficiency to help us through the current economic difficulties."

Providing cargo capacity normally associated with larger airplanes, the 777 Freighter can fly 4,880 nautical miles (9,038 kilometers) with a full payload of 226,700 pounds (103 metric tons). The new airplane is expected to progressively replace the 747-400 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) in the Air France Cargo fleet. Air France currently operates five 747-400ER Freighters and four 747-400BCFs.

"The 777 Freighter uses less fuel per cargo tonne than any freighter operating," said Aldo Basile, vice president, Sales, Europe, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With the 777F, Air France also will experience the lowest maintenance costs and the lowest trip costs of any large freighter, as well as outstanding environmental performance."

The 777 Freighter is the world's longest-range freighter and features the lowest trip cost of any large freighter, with high cargo density and 10-foot (3.1-meter) interior height capability that complement the popular 747 Freighter family.

"The 777 Freighter provides a new level of cargo economics, with low tonne-kilometer costs to help cargo airlines in the current environment," said Larry Loftis, vice president and general manager of the Boeing 777 Program. "The 777 Freighter is a great example of Boeing's commitment to continuously improve the 777 family to deliver top value to owners and operators."

The 777 Freighter is powered by General Electric's GE90-110B1L and meets QC2 noise standards.

Air France Cargo also was the first operator of the 747-400ER Freighter.
Twelve customers have ordered a total of 73 777 Freighters.
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Boeing Submits Proposals to NASA for Ares V Rocket Design Support

Boeing Submits Proposals to NASA for Ares V Rocket Design Support

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., Feb. 18, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that its Space Exploration division has submitted proposals to NASA for the Ares V Phase 1 Design Support Contracts.
Boeing submitted proposals for design support of the Ares V cargo launch vehicle's payload shroud, which will protect the Altair lunar lander during launch; the Earth-departure stage; the core stage, a liquid-fueled central booster element; and avionics and software. The work includes assessing requirements, risks and opportunities; performing trade studies and analysis; and producing final reports.
The company proposes to use the experience of its Huntsville-based team, supplemented by expertise from across Boeing, to develop products that will enable NASA to verify the Ares V design concept and demonstrate that the launch vehicle can meet its mission objectives.
"Boeing has designed and produced shrouds for Delta, Sea Launch and Titan rockets, and we've defined avionics and subsystem architectures across a wide range of aerospace products, including Delta, the space shuttle, the International Space Station and Ares I," said Jim Chilton, Boeing vice president of Exploration Launch Systems. "We're pleased to have the chance to bring this experience to NASA and Ares V."
The two-stage, vertically stacked Ares V will serve as NASA's primary rocket for safe, reliable delivery of large-scale hardware to space -- from the lunar landing craft and materials for establishing a moon base to food, water and other staples needed to extend a human presence beyond Earth's orbit.
The Ares V Phase 1 contracts will be managed out of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), Space systems

Boeing Achieves Major Environmental Certification Goal

Boeing Achieves Major Environmental Certification Goal

CHICAGO, Feb. 18, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that all of its major manufacturing facilities received the internationally recognized ISO 14001 environmental certification by the end of 2008, marking achievement of one of the company's most significant environmental goals. Certification is a global benchmark of an organization's commitment to understand and continually improve its environmental performance.
"We recognized many areas of excellence at Boeing, from employee involvement programs to recycling efforts, in one of the most aggressive ISO 14001 certification efforts we've seen," said Sidney Vianna, director of Aviation, Space & Defense Services for independent auditors Det Norske Veritas, an accredited certification body of quality, environmental and safety management systems. "Congratulations to Boeing on this significant accomplishment. We look forward to our ongoing partnership in continual environmental improvement."
The following Boeing sites certified during 2008 were commended for their environmental performance with more than 80 positive noteworthy efforts and no major nonconformances:
Alabama: Huntsville
Arizona: Mesa
Australia: Bankstown, Fishermans Bend
California: El Segundo, Long Beach, Seal Beach, Sylmar, Taft, Torrance
Canada: Winnipeg
Florida: Kennedy Space Center
Missouri: St. Louis, St. Charles
Pennsylvania: Philadelphia
Texas: San Antonio
Utah: Salt Lake City
Washington: Auburn, Frederickson, Renton and North Boeing Field, Integrated Defense Systems sites in Puget Sound
"As a responsible corporate citizen and neighbor, we are focused on reducing energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, pollution and waste at our facilities," said Mary Armstrong, Boeing vice president, Environment, Health and Safety. "Certification is a tremendous achievement by our employees, ensuring that Boeing products, from our super-efficient commercial airplanes to our military aircraft, satellites and world record-holding solar cells, are manufactured in facilities that conform to the ISO 14001 standard of environmental performance."
Facilities in Exmouth, Australia; Everett, Wash.; and Portland, Ore. had previously achieved ISO 14001 certification.
Boeing is committed to pioneering environmentally progressive products and services and reducing its environmental footprint. Some other highlights of its 2008 work include:
The establishment of aggressive targets to improve by 25 percent greenhouse gas emissions intensity, energy efficiency and recycling rates at its major manufacturing facilities by 2012, with a similar goal for hazardous waste reduction.
The world's first series of test flights powered in part by sustainable biofuels, in collaboration with Air New Zealand, Continental Airlines and Japan Airlines. Boeing is focused on research for advanced generations of sustainable biofuels using biomass that do not compete with food crops or water resources.
The release of an Environment Report detailing its performance, strategy and actions to reduce its environmental footprint and lead the aerospace industry with environmentally progressive products and services.
The world's first straight-and-level flight of a manned airplane powered only by a fuel-cell, led by Madrid-based Boeing Research & Technology Europe. The research may benefit secondary aircraft system power use.
Delivery of world-record holding solar cells by Boeing subsidiary Spectrolab Inc., to an Australian customer to power a 154MW power station.
To learn more about the company's ISO 14001 certification achievement, read the feature story in Boeing Frontiers here.
Boeing is the world's leading aerospace company and the largest manufacturer of commercial jetliners and military aircraft combined. Additionally, Boeing designs and manufactures rotorcraft, electronic and defense systems, missiles, satellites, launch vehicles and advanced information and communication systems. As a major service provider to NASA, Boeing operates the Space Shuttle and International Space Station. The company also provides numerous military and commercial airline support services. Boeing has customers in more than 90 countries around the world and is one of the largest U.S. exporters in terms of sales.
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Boeing Achieves Water Conservation Milestone in Southern California

Boeing Achieves Water Conservation Milestone in Southern California

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 18, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced the successful completion of a project that is expected to save approximately 870,000 gallons of water annually -- enough to wash 17,400 cars in a line spanning almost 54 miles. Boeing worked with the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) of Southern California to install motion-activated faucets and more than 400 dual-flushometer toilets and associated valves in 23 buildings throughout the company's Space and Intelligence Systems site in El Segundo.

"This accomplishment demonstrates our commitment to operational efficiency and environmental stewardship, but we have more work to do to further reduce our impact on the environment," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "It is amazing to think of what we have accomplished together, and Boeing is dedicated to improving operational performance to benefit our employees, customers and communities."

Boeing has reduced water consumption at its U.S. operations by approximately 28 percent since 2002.

Water conservation is just one element of Boeing's ongoing effort to improve its environmental performance. In 2007, the company established five-year targets to improve energy efficiency, recycling rates and greenhouse-gas emissions intensity by 25 percent, and included a comparable goal for hazardous-waste reduction.

The El Segundo site is contributing to this companywide effort through energy and water conservation, solid-waste recycling, and bottle and can recycling projects. Employees at the site also formed a "green team" to broaden workplace awareness and encourage environmental responsibility. Last year, the site was certified to the internationally recognized ISO 14001 environmental standard as part of Boeing's effort to expand certification to all of the company's major manufacturing sites.

In 2008, the El Segundo site achieved energy savings totaling $315,000 in rebates and refunds from MWD, Southern California Edison, Sempra Energy and Southern California Gas Company. The site also achieved cost savings of more than $138,000 by implementing a variety of energy-efficiency projects to replace obsolete lighting and cooling equipment.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing SLAM ER Scores Direct Hit in Land-Based Moving Target Test

Boeing SLAM ER Scores Direct Hit in Land-Based Moving Target Test

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 18, 2009 -- The Boeing [NYSE: BA] Standoff Land Attack Missile Expanded Response (SLAM ER) weapon system scored a direct hit against a remote-controlled, land-based moving target Jan. 15 in a flight test conducted at the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center in China Lake, Calif.
"SLAM ER has demonstrated its effectiveness against stationary targets, moving surface-ship targets and, now, land-based moving targets," said Jan Browne, director of Stand-off Strike Weapons for Boeing. "This advanced capability provides an added level of security for our warfighters."

The test concluded a successful, four-part series of developmental/operational flight tests funded by the U.S. Navy Rapid Technology Transfer program. Previous test flights included engagement with remote-controlled mobile targets in 2006 and an operational test launch earlier in January.

For the Jan. 15 test, an aircraft equipped with the Navy Littoral Surveillance Radar System sent real-time targeting data to a Boeing F/A-18F aircraft, which relayed the data to the SLAM ER after the weapon launched from a second F/A-18F aircraft. The SLAM ER acquired and impacted a simulated mobile target traveling at approximately 12 miles per hour in a cluttered desert environment.

The test was designed to validate the radar system's ability to provide targeting information to the SLAM ER weapon, as well as SLAM ER's ability to acquire and impact the target with varied target speeds and background environments. This capability is now awaiting customer approval to become operational.

SLAM ER is a highly adaptable day/night, adverse-weather, over-the-horizon precision strike missile capable of hitting stationary or moving targets on land or at sea.
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House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Praises Announcement to Increase U.S. Troop Commitment in Afghanistan

House Armed Services Committee: Skelton Praises Announcement to Increase U.S. Troop Commitment in Afghanistan

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: February 17, 2009

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) praised today’s announcement to increase U.S. troop levels in Afghanistan:

“Commanders in Afghanistan have been calling for more troops to meet mission requirements. Today’s announcement committing additional U.S. troops in Afghanistan signals that we are restoring American leadership to the coalition effort to defeat al Qaeda and the Taliban and to support the Government of Afghanistan. I hope our NATO allies will take our example to heart and provide more assistance as well.

“But in addition to our military contributions, we must also increase the civilian resources available to improve security and stability in Afghanistan. This is extremely important. The military’s role is critical, but we must use all of our tools – military, diplomatic, economic – to meet the challenges in this region. I look forward to working with the administration to chart the path ahead in Afghanistan.”

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Boeing Delivers 1st Communications Payload to MUOS Prime Contractor

Boeing Delivers 1st Communications Payload to MUOS Prime Contractor

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 17, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the first Legacy Communications payload and the first digital channelizer to Lockheed Martin in support of the U.S. Navy's new Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) communications system. The Legacy Communications payload allows the Navy to use existing UHF ground- and space-based communications systems. MUOS is a network of satellites that will provide communications services to mobile and fixed equipment used by U.S. military personnel around the world.

Boeing is under contract to MUOS prime contractor Lockheed Martin to build, test and deliver three Legacy Communications payloads and three digital channelizers for the MUOS satellite system. Boeing received the contract in 2004; the first MUOS satellite is scheduled for launch in 2010.

"Delivering the first legacy payload is another important milestone in Boeing's long history of providing ultra-high-frequency communications to the U.S. Navy and ultimately to the warfighters," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "The MUOS team's excellent work in meeting all performance requirements helps reduce the risk involved with new satellite programs."

Boeing integrated and tested the first flight payload subsystem at its satellite factory in El Segundo, Calif., and then shipped it to Lockheed Martin's Space Systems facility in Newtown, Pa., for final integration and payload testing.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), Space systems

IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN: Availability of Forces, Equipment, and Infrastructure Should be Considered in Developing U.S. Strategy and Plans

IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN: Availability of Forces, Equipment, and Infrastructure Should be Considered in Developing U.S. Strategy and Plans

February 12, 2009

Highlights of GAO-09-380T, a testimony before the Committee on Armed Services, House of Representatives

The United States is in the process of developing its strategy for operations in Afghanistan, as well as for the drawdown and continued operations of forces in Iraq. As of December 2008, approximately 32,500 U.S. troops were deployed in Afghanistan. Moreover, DOD may add an additional 30,000 troops in Afghanistan. Since 2001, the war in Afghanistan changed from a violent struggle against al Qaeda and its Taliban supporters to a multi-faceted counterinsurgency effort. As of December 2008, U.S. troops in Iraq numbered approximately 148,500. DOD also had about 162,400 contractors in Iraq as of mid-2008.

Today’s testimony addresses (1) key observations regarding the development of U.S. strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan; (2) factors that should be considered as the United States refines its strategy for Iraq and plans to draw down forces; and (3) factors that should be considered as the United States develops a strategy for Afghanistan and plans for increasing forces.
This statement is based on GAO reports and testimonies on Iraq and Afghanistan.

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Afghanistan, GAO (Government Accountability Office), Iraq

House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO): Hearing on Assessing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan—Balancing Interests and Resources House Armed Services Committee</a>: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO): Hearing on Assessing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan—Balancing Interests and Resources

House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO): Hearing on Assessing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan—Balancing Interests and Resources

Ike Skelton, Chairman

For Immediate Release: February 12, 2009

Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO): Hearing on Assessing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan—Balancing Interests and Resources

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) delivered the following opening statement during today’s hearing on Assessing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan – Balancing Interests and Resources:

“Today the House Armed Services Committee meets to receive testimony on ‘Assessing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan—Balancing Interests and Resources.’ Our witnesses for today’s hearing are Dr. Stephen Biddle of the Council on Foreign Relations; Dr. Anthony Cordesman of the Center for Strategic and International Studies; General Jack Keane, former Vice Chief of Staff of the Army; and Janet St. Laurent from the Government Accountability Office. Welcome all of you. Without objection, your written statements will be entered into the record.

“The new Administration has made it clear that they are renewing the focus on America’s Other War in Afghanistan. This is about time. For too long, our country has not paid sufficient attention to the war in Afghanistan. We are not winning there. Casualties are on the rise and the Taliban is conducting more widespread attacks, including those this week on government buildings in Kabul. A new strategy with clearly articulated and achievable goals is desperately needed, and I am pleased that the Administration is undertaking such a review.

“At the same time, Iraq, which has been our major focus for the last five years, seems to be trending in a positive direction. Violence is down significantly and provincial elections have been conducted. This is a welcome change. But our commanders there tell us we’re not over the hurdles yet and the situation in Iraq remains potentially unstable and dangerous. With the input from those commanders, the President is also considering the future of the U.S. presence in Iraq and how fast we can drawdown our troop presence in Iraq.

“This is the context for the hearing today. The President will, hopefully in the near future, announce new strategies for both Iraq and Afghanistan. We on the House Armed Services Committee, together with some of our other colleagues, will be charged with evaluating these strategies. Today’s hearing is intended to raise those questions and issues that will help us do that job.

“We must remember that neither strategy can be taken in isolation. Troops in Iraq are not available for service in Afghanistan. Enablers, like UAVs or combat engineers, are desperately needed in both theaters, but we don’t have enough to fully resource both, at least in the near future. The Administration and the Congress are going to have to balance our interests and risks in each theater and try to best figure out how to spread these limited resources around. It is my hope that the witnesses here today will suggest questions and raise issues that will help us accomplish that task.

“I now turn to my colleague and good friend, the ranking member of the committee, John McHugh, for any comments he might care to make.”

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Afghanistan, HASC (House Armed Services Committee), Iraq

DEFENSE MANAGEMENT: Actions Needed to Overcome Long-standing Challenges with Weapon Systems Acquisition and Service Contract Management

DEFENSE MANAGEMENT: Actions Needed to Overcome Long-standing Challenges with Weapon Systems Acquisition and Service Contract Management

February 11, 2009

Highlights of GAO-09-362T, a testimony before the Subcommittee on Defense, Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives

Today’s testimony addresses the challenges DOD faces to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its weapon systems acquisition and contract management. GAO has designated both areas as high risk areas since the early 1990s. DOD’s major weapon systems programs continue to take longer to develop, cost more, and deliver fewer quantities and capabilities than originally planned. DOD also continues to face long-standing challenges managing service contracts and contractors. For example, the oversight of service contracts has been recognized as a material weakness in the Army. The current fiscal environment combined with the current operational demands elevates the need to improve weapon systems acquisition and contract management.

DOD has taken steps in response to recommendations GAO has made over the past decade. Taken collectively, these actions reflect the commitment of DOD senior leadership. However, to fully address these challenges the department needs to (1) translate policy into practice, (2) ensure steps undertaken result in intended outcomes, and (3) conduct a fundamental reexamination of its reliance on contractors.
In preparing this testimony, GAO drew from issued reports, containing statements of scope and methodology used, and testimonies.

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GAO (Government Accountability Office)

Boeing Receives Contract to Add Virtual Radar to US Navy T-45 Training System

Boeing Receives Contract to Add Virtual Radar to US Navy T-45 Training System

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 05, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] received a $28.3 million contract on Jan. 21 for two Virtual Mission Training System (VMTS) retrofit kits that will integrate low-cost, realistic radar training into the U.S. Navy's T-45 Training System for undergraduate military flight officers (UMFO). Flight officers are the "backseaters" who operate weapons and electronic warfare systems.
"VMTS will enrich the UMFO's weapons-and-tactics curriculum, producing flight officers who are better prepared for carrier strike-fighter and electronic-attack duty," said Barbara Wilson, director and program manager of T-45 Training Systems for Boeing.

This phase of the VMTS program, which follows a requirements-definition phase, is scheduled for completion in September 2011. It calls for Boeing to finalize design, procure hardware, modify two aircraft and flight-test the system. The work involves T-45C aircraft and ground-station systems assigned to Training Air Wing 6, Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla. An additional 18 aircraft will be retrofitted with the system during the program's third phase, if funded.

VMTS provides an unclassified, mechanically scanned tactical radar that simulates air-to-air and air-to-ground modes as well as weapons and electronic warfare. These functions can be networked between the participating aircraft and instructor ground stations. The system will provide in-flight training against virtual enemy aircraft, including cooperative training with both real and virtual aircraft.
Boeing is currently under contract for 221 T-45 Goshawk trainer aircraft and recently rolled out the 215th from its St. Louis assembly facility. The two-seat Goshawk forms the heart of the fully integrated T-45 training system, which is in use at NAS Kingsville, Texas, and NAS Meridian, Miss., as well as at NAS Pensacola. The system includes high-fidelity instrument and flight simulators, computer-assisted classrooms and courseware, and a computerized training management asset.

Described by instructor-pilots as "eminently forgiving," the T-45 is the only jet trainer designed to land routinely at sink rates of greater than 700 feet per minute, which are required for aircraft carrier-approach landings. The Goshawk has logged more than 870,000 flight-hours and 59,000 aircraft carrier catapult launches and arrested landings since entering service in 1992 and has seen approximately 3,500 Navy, Marine Corps and international student aviators earn their wings.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), Contract $30m, Contract Win, Military Training, US Air Force (USAF)

Boeing Names Aldo Basile Vice President Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia

Boeing Names Aldo Basile Vice President Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia

LONDON, Feb. 04, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has named Aldo Basile its new Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia. Basile succeeds Marlin Dailey, who recently became Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president Sales.

Based at the Commercial Airplanes European headquarters in London, Basile is responsible for the company's commercial airplane sales activity across the region. Much of his sales team is strategically located close to Boeing customers throughout Europe and Russia; several team members are based in Seattle. Basile has been with Commercial Airplanes Sales since 1989. Most recently Basile served as vice president Sales for several European countries based in Paris.

Basile has more than 30 years of experience at Boeing, joining in 1978. He started within the Marketing organization, where he spent one year in Market Analysis. He then moved to the Airline Analysis group in 1979. In 1985, he became director of the Airline Analysis organization, leading a team providing financial and market analysis in support of both Boeing Sales and customer airlines.

Basile's career began in 1973 at Aeritalia, the Italian aircraft manufacturer now known as Alenia. He was responsible for Aircraft Performance and later, for Product Development at Aeritalia, working in the 7X7 joint-venture program at Boeing facilities in Seattle.

Basile earned a bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Naples in 1971. In 1980, he earned a master's degree in business administration from Seattle University.
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Appointments, Boeing (NYSE:BA)

Boeing Submits A-10 Sustainment/Integration Contract Proposal to US Air Force

Boeing Submits A-10 Sustainment/Integration Contract Proposal to US Air Force

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 04, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today submitted a proposal to the U.S. Air Force to participate as an associate prime contractor in the projected $1.6 billion A-10 Thunderbolt Life-Cycle Program Support (TLPS) contract to support the sustainment of the A-10 Thunderbolt II weapon system and integration of current and future requirements.

"We are confident the Air Force will continue to recognize the resources and competencies that The Boeing Company brings to the warfighter," said Steve Waltman, director of Boeing Aircraft Sustainment & Maintenance, a subdivision of the company's Maintenance, Modifications & Upgrades division. "We are committed to the standard of excellence we have exhibited on the current A-10 Wing Replacement Program and, if selected, we will deliver the same outstanding level of customer satisfaction and performance on the TLPS contract."

Boeing won the $2 billion A-10 Wing Replacement Program contract in June 2007. The program includes engineering services and the manufacture of up to 242 wing sets for the Air Force's A-10 fleet. The program is on schedule as Boeing develops the 3-D models that provide the engineering foundation for current wing sustainment needs, design improvements to prevent cracking, and production of the enhanced wing sets.

"The Boeing solution for the A-10 Wing Replacement Program allows the A-10 fleet to fly for at least another 20 years, providing the close-air support our troops need," said Bill Moorefield, A-10 program manager for Boeing. "Our proposal for TLPS takes that one step further -- providing support for the aircraft fleet while ensuring relevance and viability through 2028 and beyond."

The Air Force will select up to three contractors to compete for individual task and delivery orders over the life of the contract. Work will include avionics, mechanical, structural, and propulsion system upgrade work and a program integration support task.

The A-10, also known as the Warthog, was first introduced into the Air Force inventory in 1976. The twin-engine aircraft provides close-air support of ground forces and employs a wide variety of conventional munitions, including general-purpose bombs. The simple, effective and survivable single-seat aircraft can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The aircraft is currently supporting operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Boeing (NYSE:BA), US Air Force (USAF), A-10 Thunderbolt II

Boeing Awarded $250 Million Missile Defense Support Contract

Boeing Awarded $250 Million Missile Defense Support Contract

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 04, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a one-year, $250 million Missile Defense Agency (MDA) contract for Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) maintenance and operations support, ensuring the United States' only defense against long-range ballistic missiles remains ready for operational service.

The contract, awarded Feb. 2, includes an option for 2010 and covers operator and maintainer training, supply chain services, on-site engineering support and technical data development.
"Boeing has led the missile defense industry team from inception to operation," said Terry Kunkel, director, GMD Operations and Sustainment for Boeing. "This contract recognizes the GMD team's unmatched performance and builds upon the progress of this vital national security program."

GMD, an integral element of the global ballistic missile defense system, consists of interceptors in underground silos, radars, command and control facilities, communications terminals and a 20,000-mile, fiber-optic communications network. The program has more than 400 partners and suppliers with operations in 36 states and operational sites in Alaska, California and Colorado, as well as the Sea-Based X-Band (SBX) radar system.

MDA recently announced it will solicit competitive bids for future GMD operations and sustainment support no later than 2011. As an industry leader in performance-based logistics, Boeing is well positioned to compete for and win additional GMD support contracts.

"We rely on talent from across Boeing and our industry teammates to bring the best value, the lowest risk and highest performance to our customer," said Kunkel. "With 11 performance-based logistics programs currently under contract, we have the necessary experience to support the Missile Defense Agency today and in the future."

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense 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 Integrated Defense Systems is a $32 billion business with 70,000 employees worldwide.
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Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD), Boeing (NYSE:BA), Contract $200m+, Contract Win

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of February 9 - 13, 2009

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of February 9 - 13, 2009

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: Feb. 4, 2009

Thursday, February 12, 2009 – 10:30 am – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to receive testimony on Addressing U.S. Strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan: Balancing Interests and Resources.

Witnesses:

Anthony Cordesman, Ph.D.
Arleigh A. Burke Chair in Strategy
Center for Strategic and International Studies

Stephen Biddle, Ph.D.
Senior Fellow for Defense Policy
Council on Foreign Relations

The Honorable Zalmay Khalilzad
Counselor
Center for Strategic and International Studies


Thursday, February 12, 2009 – 1:00 pm – 2118 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Strategies for Countering Violent Extremist Ideologies.

Witnesses:

Mr. Raymond Ibrahim
Associate Director, Middle East Forum and author of The Al Qaeda Reader

Dr. Michael Doran
Visiting Professor, Wagner School of Public Service, New York University and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Support for Public Diplomacy)

TBA

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HASC (House Armed Services Committee)