Boeing to Showcase Maritime Superiority Solutions at Navy League Exposition

Boeing to Showcase Maritime Superiority Solutions at Navy League Exposition

ARLINGTON, Va., April 30, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] will showcase a wide range of advanced naval solutions, including tactical, maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft; unmanned aerial vehicles; rotorcraft; weapons; and ship-based information systems, at the 2009 Navy League Sea-Air-Space Exposition, May 4-6 in National Harbor, Md.
"Ready and relevant Boeing programs such as F/A-18E/F, V-22, ScanEagle, P-8A and others continue to demonstrate our commitment to providing the U.S. Navy with cost-effective products and services that strengthen maritime security and superiority," said Matt Mofitt, vice president, Navy and Marine Corps Systems, for Boeing. "Our participation in Navy League 2009 underscores the importance of interacting with our customers, listening to their evolving needs and responding with appropriate solutions."

The Boeing exhibit will allow attendees at the world's largest maritime trade show to experience the proven capabilities of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in a high-fidelity flight simulator and to interact with several other program displays and demonstrations.

Boeing also will conduct several media briefings on key programs at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center per the following schedule (all times EDT):

Monday, May 4 -- National Harbor Conference Room 5

3 - 4 p.m.
Ship-to-Shore Connector Teaming Announcement
Boeing announces a teaming agreement to pursue the U.S. Navy's Ship-to-Shore Connector program.


Tuesday, May 5 -- National Harbor Conference Room 5

11 a.m. - 12 noon
F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
Bob Gower, Boeing vice president, F/A-18 and EA-18 Programs, and U.S. Navy Capt. Mark Darrah, F/A-18 and EA-18 program manager, PMA-265, provide an update on the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the world's most advanced combat-proven, multirole fighter.

2 - 3 p.m.
EA-18G Growler
Rick Martin, Boeing EA-18G program manager, and U.S. Navy Capt. Mark Darrah, F/A-18 and EA-18 program manager, PMA-265, share the latest developments on the EA-18G Growler airborne electronic attack aircraft.

3 - 4 p.m.
P-8A Poseidon
Bob Feldmann, Boeing vice president and P-8A program manager, and U.S. Navy Capt. Mike Moran, Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft program manager, PMA-290, discuss the P-8A Poseidon following the aircraft's successful first flight on April 25.

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)

Lockheed Martin UK Acquires IMES Strategic Support Limited

Lockheed Martin UK Acquires IMES Strategic Support Limited

Purchase Strengthens Company's UK Strategic Weapons System Services Capabilities

Bethesda, MD, April 30, 2009 -- Lockheed Martin UK Limited (LMUK), a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin Corporation [NYSE: LMT], has acquired Imes Strategic Support Limited (ISSL), a subsidiary of the IMES Group, a privately held company based in Helensburgh, Scotland. Terms of the transaction, which will not have a material impact on the Corporation, are not being disclosed.

ISSL provides engineering, maintenance, repair, and support services for key sub-systems of the UK Royal Navy's Trident Strategic Weapons System program at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland with additional activities within the Devonport Dockyard in Plymouth, the Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) Headquarters at Abbey Wood, Bristol and the United Kingdom Software Facility. ISSL was recently awarded a new 10-year extension to provide these services, with an option for a further five- year extension.

Lockheed Martin UK Limited will manage ISSL in coordination with Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, based in Denver, Colorado.

"Lockheed Martin is already a leader in the development, design and servicing of strategic weapons systems in the United States and this transaction represents a natural strategic fit," said Joanne Maguire, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin's Space Systems Company. "ISSL will provide an important set of capabilities in the United Kingdom and will enable us to offer a broader set of solutions to our US and UK customers."

Stephen Ball, chief executive of Lockheed Martin UK Limited said, "ISSL is known as a firm of constant innovation. Adding its capabilities to the Lockheed Martin UK portfolio is an important step for LMUK and signifies our commitment to our British strategic weapons systems customer."

"ISSL has been a key service provider to the UK Ministry of Defence and has a solid history of delivering outstanding support for the Strategic Weapons System program," said Melfort Campbell, chairman of the Imes Group. "We are very pleased that ISSL will now become a part of Lockheed Martin UK Limited. Adding the strengths and commitment of Lockheed Martin to those of ISSL will ensure our customer and our employees will realize significant benefits from this acquisition."

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

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Acquisition, Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Nuclear Deterrent

General Dynamics Completes Critical Design Review for U.S. Navy's Common Display System Program

General Dynamics Completes Critical Design Review for U.S. Navy's
Common Display System Program

April 30, 2009

GENERAL DYNAMICS

FAIRFAX, Va., April 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- General Dynamics
Advanced Information Systems successfully completed the U.S. Navy's Critical Design Review of its Common Display System (CDS) display consoles. The Common Display System is an open architecture display system designed to ensure interoperability and enable frequent technology updates. The display consoles will be deployed on the new DDG 1000 Zumwalt-class and as part of the Navy's fleet-wide Aegis modernization program. General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

"During this successful design review, General Dynamics presented a
solid technical solution and execution schedule," said Capt. Pete Nardi, Program Execution Office, Integrated Warfare Systems (IWS6). "I congratulate the entire government and industry team on successfully completing this significant milestone for the CDS program."

The Common Display System product family consists of a series of display
configurations based on standardized, interchangeable components. CDS meets the Navy's current and future need for open systems, increased security features and cost effectiveness. With an intended service life of 30 years, the systems meet open architecture and open business model requirements with minimized lifecycle costs.

"By applying our open architecture framework to the Common Display
System, we are delivering to the Navy a low-risk, flexible design with proven multi-level security functions and the ability to rapidly insert new capabilities," said Mike Tweed-Kent, vice president and general manager of integrated combat systems for General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems. "With the completion of the Critical Design Review, we are on track to begin production this summer."

The next significant milestone for the program is the Test Readiness
Review.

In November 2007, General Dynamics was awarded an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with the total potential value of $83 million for the development, qualification, production and support of the Common Display System display consoles. General Dynamics is
providing program management, engineering, manufacturing, integrated
logistics support, tests and evaluations.

General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems designs, develops,
manufactures, integrates, operates and maintains mission systems for
defense, space, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, homeland security and homeland defense customers. Headquartered in Fairfax, Va., the company specializes in ground systems, imagery processing, mission payloads, space vehicles; maritime subsurface, surface and airborne mission systems; and tasking, collection, processing, exploitation, and dissemination programs for national intelligence. More information is available on the Internet at www.gd-ais.com.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,300 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in
business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and
munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and
technologies.

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General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), USN (US Navy)

Raytheon Provides Boston Marathon with Enhanced Situational Awareness

Raytheon Provides Boston Marathon with Enhanced Situational Awareness

TEWKSBURY, Mass., April 30, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company deployed a system that provided enhanced situational awareness to the City of Boston during the Boston Marathon April 20.

Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems operationally deployed its Athena system to integrate existing video, mapping, location, tracking and operational information into one common operating picture to enhance public safety in the city and port area during the Boston Marathon.

"This project demonstrates the importance of partnerships," Boston Mayor Thomas Menino said. "My administration is committed to working closely with our business and non-profit sector partners to ensure that our public safety agencies have all the tools they need to protect this city."

"Raytheon is a source of proven solutions for real-time situational awareness for public safety and emergency management," said Mary Petryszyn, vice president of Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems' Civil Security and Response Programs business area. "Providing this multi-agency integration capability to Boston during the Marathon helped to keep the public safe."

Roderick Fraser, City of Boston fire commissioner, said, "This project demonstrated that we have the capacity to integrate current systems to provide better situational awareness in a geospatial way for all public safety agencies that we haven't had in the past."

Donald Denning, Boston's public safety chief information officer, said: "Raytheon enabled the integration of disparate information into one common operating picture accessible by multiple city departments during the Marathon. The Athena system is a powerful incident command tool."

Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Global Capabilities Integration, providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

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Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Royal Air Force's Boeing C-17s Surpass 50,000 Hours of Flight Time

Royal Air Force's Boeing C-17s Surpass 50,000 Hours of Flight Time

LONG BEACH, Calif., April 30, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the UK Royal Air Force (RAF) today announced that the RAF fleet of six C-17 Globemaster III airlifters has surpassed 50,000 flying hours in eight years of service.

A mission out of Afghanistan on Tuesday, April 28 helped the fleet achieve the milestone.

"The C-17 is a remarkable airlifter in every way imaginable, from mission readiness and reliability to its flexibility in being able to handle tough tasks," said RAF Air Marshal Kevin Leeson, Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff for Logistic Operations. "I can't imagine operating without them."

The C-17s, assigned to 99 Squadron at RAF base Brize Norton near London, provide critical airlift capability for the Joint Rapid Reaction Force. Brize Norton is the RAF headquarters for strategic air transport and air-to-air refueling.

"This accomplishment is a testament to the RAF and to the Boeing employees who build this reliable, durable aircraft and support our customers' maintenance crews around the world, 24 hours a day," said Jean Chamberlin, Boeing vice president and general manager, Global Mobility Systems.

"The Royal Air Force was the first international C-17 customer to utilize a unique 'Virtual Fleet' concept developed by the U.S. Air Force and Boeing as an offer under a foreign military sales case. The virtual fleet structure ensures cooperative support and spares to the RAF fleet no matter their geographic location," said Gus Urzua, Boeing vice president and program manager for the C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership (GSP). "Congratulations to the RAF."

The RAF received its first C-17s from Boeing in May 2001. The four leased aircraft accumulated more than 16,000 flying hours in their first three years. The UK government decided to buy the four airlifters at the conclusion of their lease, and to purchase additional aircraft.
By the time UK5 and UK6 were delivered in April and June 2008, the fleet had reached 41,000 flying hours. Within hours of delivery, both aircraft flew out of Brize Norton on RAF missions.

"Eighty percent of our current tasking is in and out of Iraq and Afghanistan," said RAF Wing Cmdr. Simon Edwards, Officer Commanding 99 Squadron. "The RAF C-17 has exceeded expectations from Day One. This is another excellent example of how much we contribute to UK Defence."
The RAF marked another notable C-17 achievement in March when RAF Squadron Leader Keith Hewitt logged 5,000 flying hours in the aircraft. Hewitt is one of only a few C-17 pilots to reach this milestone.
There are currently 200 C-17s in service worldwide -- 14 with international customers. The C-17 is the world's only tactical airlift aircraft with strategic capabilities that allow it to fly between continents and land on short, austere runways.

The U.S. Air Force, including active Guard and Reserve units, has 186. International customers include the UK Royal Air Force, the Canadian Forces, the Royal Australian Air Force, Qatar, and the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capability consortium of NATO and Partnership for Peace nations. The United Arab Emirates announced in February that it will acquire four C-17s.
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), C-17 Globemaster, Royal Air Force

House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) Hearing on the Reform of Major Weapon Systems Acquisition

House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) Hearing on the Reform of Major Weapon Systems Acquisition

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For Immediate Release: April 30, 2009

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) delivered the following opening statement during today’s hearing on the Reform of Major Weapon Systems Acquisition:

“Welcome to today’s hearing on reform of major weapon systems acquisition and related legislative proposals. Our witnesses have a rare combination of policy experience and technical expertise. Rudy deLeon, Senior Vice President for National Security at the Center for American Progress, former Deputy Secretary of Defense, and most importantly, former staff director of this committee; Dr. David Chu, President of the Institute for Defense Analyses, former Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, and former Director of Program Analysis and Evaluation, he appears today in a personal capacity; David Berteau, Director of the Defense Industrial Initiatives Group at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and also a former DOD official; and Paul Francis, Managing Director for Acquisitions and Sourcing Management and a 32-year employee of the Government Accountability Office.

“It is worth noting that at least three of today’s witnesses participated actively in the debates surrounding Goldwater-Nichols, the last time that DOD’s acquisition organization was given a top-to-bottom overhaul. Mr. Francis, you may have also participated in those debates, and I’m sure you will let us know if that is so. Since the recommendations of the Packard Commission led directly to the acquisition reforms in Goldwater-Nichols it would be interesting if each of you at some point today might share your perspective on how we can best apply the philosophy of the Packard Commission to today’s acquisition problems.

“The Committee on Armed Services has under consideration two serious proposals to reform the acquisition of major weapon systems. H.R. 2101 was introduced this Monday by myself and John McHugh along with Rob Andrews and Mike Conaway who lead our Panel on Defense Acquisition Reform, and a number of other members. H.R. 1830 was introduced March 31st as the companion measure to the Levin/McCain bill in the Senate, and was sponsored by Ellen Tauscher and John Spratt, both of whom have also joined as co-sponsors of H.R. 2101.

“Both bills focus on the acquisition of major weapon systems, which represent 20 percent of DOD’s annual spending on purchases. Now let there be no mistake, this committee and especially the Panel, are just as focused on the other 80 percent of defense acquisition. In addition, we remain focused on the overarching structural questions of the sort dealt with in Goldwater-Nichols. As is often the case, we must walk and chew gum at the same time, and we will deal meaningfully with all these issues.

“H.R. 2101 introduces 3 significant new concepts. Number one, we require the Secretary of Defense to designate an official as the Department’s principal expert on performance assessment. This official will provide the Department and Congress with unbiased assessments of just how successful our acquisition programs are or are not. Number two, we require certain programs to enter into a sort of intensive care for sick programs. Programs that are not meeting the standards for system development or that have had critical Nunn-McCurdy breaches will get additional scrutiny. Number three, we require the Department to set up a system to track the cost growth and schedule changes that happen prior to milestone B, the decision point where we begin development of a production system. It is before milestone B when 75 percent of a program’s costs are actually determined.

“On the whole there is a lot in common between the two bills. About 25 percent is the same, about 50 percent is overlapping, and about 25 percent is only in the House bill. I am confident that our committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee can find common ground and compromise on this legislation expeditiously as we have so often in the past. I look forward to the recommendations of our witnesses for how to improve these bills as they move through the legislative process. Now let me recognize my friend and colleague, John McHugh.”

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Acquisition, HASC (House Armed Services Committee)

Department of Energy Awards Lockheed Martin-Led Team $3.059 Billion Hanford Mission Support Contract

Department of Energy Awards Lockheed Martin-Led Team $3.059 Billion Hanford Mission Support Contract

Rockville, Md., April 29, 2009 -- The Department of Energy (DOE) has selected a team led by Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) to manage and operate the new Mission Support Contract at its Hanford site in south central Washington State. The latest DOE determination was made following a protest lodged by a competing bidder and a review last fall by the Government Accountability Office.

With a total program value of $3.059 billion over a 10-year period, the contract includes a five-year base contract period and options to extend it to an additional five years. Lockheed Martin is joined in the limited liability company, Mission Support Alliance (MSA) by partners Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc., and Wackenhut Services, Inc. They will also be supported by several small teammates. MSA LLC had been notified in September, 2008, that it had won the contract.

Under the leadership of Lockheed Martin's Frank Figueroa, MSA LLC President, the team will provide integrated site-wide services to the DOE and other contractors at the Hanford site, such as safety, security and environment, site infrastructure and utilities, site business management, information resources and content management and portfolio management.

The existing Information Resources Management services work at Hanford, now being performed by Lockheed Martin under a subcontract to Fluor Hanford, Inc., will continue under the Mission Support Contract. Frank Armijo, who has successfully led Hanford IRM and other Tri-Cities, Washington-based technology programs, will remain in his role supporting MSA and leading the Lockheed Martin Advanced Technology Solutions unit in Richland.

"We are gratified that the U.S. Government has made its determination, and we are ready to begin," Tom Grumbly, Vice President of Lockheed Martin Energy and Security Services in Rockville, Md. "The team has maintained a high state of readiness to effect a smooth transition and an efficient, progressive path forward for the DOE, its contractors, and the community in the Tri-Cities," he said.

In addition to mission support for energy labs, Lockheed Martin is working with its customers to address the nation's energy and climate challenges in the areas of energy efficiency, management and storage, next-generation alternative energies, and climate monitoring.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

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Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT)

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of May 4 – May 8, 2009

House Armed Services Committee: The House Armed Services Committee announces the following schedule for the week of May 4 – May 8, 2009

Ike Skelton, Chairman
For planning purposes: April 29, 2009

Tuesday, May 5, 2009 – 2:00pm –2118 Rayburn – Open

The Air and Land Forces Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on the Army National Guard and Air National Guard equipment programs.

Witnesses:

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

Major General Raymond W. Carpenter, ARNG
Acting Deputy Director
Army National Guard


Tuesday, May 5, 2009 – 3:30pm –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Cyberspace as a Warfighting Domain: Policy, Management and Technical Challenges to Mission Assurance.

Witnesses:

Lieutenant General William Shelton, USAF
Chief of Warfighting Integration
Chief Information Officer
Office of the Secretary of the Air Force

Mr. Robert Lentz
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Cyber, Identify and Information Assurance and Senior Information Assurance Official
Department of Defense

Lieutenant General Keith Alexander, USA
Commander, Joint Functional Component Command Network Warfare
Director, National Security Agency
Department of Defense

Mr. Rob Carey
Chief Information Officer (DONCIO)
U. S. Navy

Mr. Mike Krieger
Deputy Chief Information Officer/G-6
U. S. Army


Wednesday, May 6, 2009 – 10:00am –2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to receive testimony on the Department of Defense at High Risk: The Chief Management Officer’s Recommendations for Acquisition Reform and Related High Risk Areas.

Witness:

The Honorable William Lynn
Deputy Secretary of Defense
Department of Defense


Wednesday, May 6, 2009 – 2:00pm –2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to receive testimony on the report of The Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States.

Witnesses:

Dr. William J. Perry
Chairman
The Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States

Dr. James R. Schlesinger
Vice Chairman
The Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States


Thursday, May 7, 2009 – 10:00am –2212 Rayburn – Open

The Terrorism, Unconventional Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee will meet to receive testimony on Counterinsurgency and Irregular Warfare: Issues and Lessons Learned.

Witnesses:

Dr. David Kilcullen
Partner, Crumpton Group LLC
Senior Fellow, EastWest Institute
Member of the Advisory Board, Center for a New American Security

Dr. Frederick W. Kagan
Resident Scholar
The American Enterprise Institute

Mr. Michael S. Lund
Consulting Program Manager
Project on Leadership and Building State Capacity
Woodrow Wilson Center

Lisa Schirch, Ph.D.
3D Security Initiative Director
Professor of Peacebuilding
Center for Justice and Peacebuilding
Eastern Mennonite University


Thursday, May 7, 2009 – 2:00pm –2118 Rayburn – Open

The full committee will meet to mark-up the following legislation: H.R. 2101 – Weapons Acquisition System Reform Through Enhancing Technical Knowledge and Oversight Act of 2009.

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HASC (House Armed Services Committee)

Lockheed Martin Delivers 50th C-5 AMP Aircraft

Lockheed Martin Delivers 50th C-5 AMP Aircraft

MARIETTA, Ga., April 29, 2009 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] recently delivered the 50th C-5 Galaxy strategic airlifter upgraded with Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) improvements. AMP is the first part of the two-phase C-5 modernization program. The aircraft, delivered to Air Force Reserve Command's 433rd Airlift Wing at Lackland AFB, Texas, is now equipped with a state-of-the-art glass cockpit with modern avionics and flight instruments.

"This delivery brings the Air Force one step closer to realizing the full capability of an upgraded and more efficient C-5 fleet," said Lorraine Martin, Lockheed Martin C-5 program vice president. "We're currently running two very successful AMP production lines. This effort, along with the upcoming second phase of the C-5 modernization program, will ensure the Air Force has a C-5 fleet that will be highly effective for the next 40 years."

The AMP installations are taking place at Dover AFB, Del., and at Travis AFB, Calif. The fleet-wide AMP modifications are scheduled to be completed in the second quarter of 2014. A total of 111 C-5s are scheduled to be modified with AMP upgrades.

The AMP upgrades replace the analog cockpit instruments and systems in the C-5 with digital displays and equipment. This modernization phase also provides the necessary communications and navigational avionics to comply with Global Air Traffic Management (GATM) requirements, the new set of international standards for aircraft movement and reduced separation in flight.

The second phase of the C-5 modernization effort is the Reliability Enhancement and Re-Engining Program (RERP). RERP includes 70 enhancements or replacements of major components and subsystems, including the installation of GE CF6-80C2 commercial engines. Fifty-two of the 111 airplanes receiving the AMP upgrades are currently scheduled to receive the RERP upgrades. When one of the giant transport aircraft receives both the AMP and RERP modifications, it receives the C-5M Super Galaxy designation. Three aircraft (two former B-models and one former A-model) were used as the C-5M test fleet. All three of the C-5M aircraft have been delivered back to the U.S. Air Force.

The C-5 has been the backbone of strategic airlift in every military and humanitarian engagement since it entered service. It is the only aircraft capable of carrying 100 percent of certified military air-transportable cargo with a dedicated passenger compartment enabling commanders to have troops and their equipment arrive simultaneously in an area of operation. The C-5 can carry twice the cargo of other strategic airlift systems, and the C-5M Super Galaxy will be a force multiplier through 2040. Modernization of the C-5 pays for itself through savings in operation and sustainment costs.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

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Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT)

Boeing Completes Successful Preliminary Design Review for Tracking and Data Relay Satellite Series K-L

Boeing Completes Successful Preliminary Design Review for Tracking and Data Relay Satellite Series K-L

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., April 29, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has successfully completed the system-level Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for its Tracking and Data Relay Satellite system (TDRS) K-L program, an important design milestone as the program moves toward integration of the TDRS K satellite for NASA. The comprehensive five-day review was held in El Segundo in March and attended by NASA project, program and Headquarters officials.

The PDR, which followed the successful delta integrated baseline review completed earlier this year, is the result of a series of monthly reviews and ongoing partnership between Boeing and NASA to execute to plan. It included presentations on systems engineering, program management, safety and mission assurance, the spacecraft, the launch vehicle, the ground segment and mission operations.

"Our customer was very pleased with the results of the PDR and recognized Boeing's commitment to the success of the TDRS program," said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "Boeing now proceeds into implementation of the detailed design for TDRS K with NASA's full confidence that our team is on good footing and properly baselined to meet the technical requirements and schedule."

Boeing is on track to complete the program's Critical Design Review in early 2010, after which spacecraft integration can begin.
Under a contract awarded in December 2007, Boeing is developing the next-generation K-L series of TDRS satellites to provide NASA with crucial communications capability between ground-based control and data-processing facilities and Earth-orbiting spacecraft, including the space shuttle, the Hubble Space Telescope, the International Space Station and dozens of unmanned scientific satellites in low Earth orbit. The TDRS K-L series integrates a modern design based on flight-proven performance. The Boeing-built 601HP spacecraft also employs the patented, innovative spring-back antenna design that was flown on TDRS H, I and J. The steerable, single-access antennas can simultaneously send and receive high data rate transmissions at S-band and either Ku- or Ka-band frequencies, supporting dual independent two-way communication and making the satellite less susceptible to radio interference.

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: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) Hearing on the Administration’s Perspective on the Future of the U.S.-Pakistan Military Partnership

House Armed Services Committee: Opening Statement of Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) Hearing on the Administration’s Perspective on the Future of the U.S.-Pakistan Military Partnership

Ike Skelton, Chairman
April 29, 2009

Washington, DC – House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) delivered the following opening statement during today’s hearing on the Administration’s Perspective on the Future of the U.S.-Pakistan Military Partnership:

“Good afternoon. Today we have with us the Honorable Michèle Flournoy, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy at the Department of Defense; Vice Admiral James A. Winnefeld, Jr., Director of Strategic Plans and Policy for the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Ambassador Richard A. Boucher, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs at the Department of State. Thank you all for being with us today to address the future of the U.S.-Pakistan military partnership.

“This is an extremely important and timely hearing. It follows last week’s hearing before this committee on the same topic with an outstanding panel of outside experts, including General David Barno, who testified that Pakistan presents the U.S. with its greatest global strategic challenge. It also follows the recent release of the administration’s Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy, as well the administration’s supplemental budget request for a new Pakistan Counterinsurgency Capabilities Fund.

“Moreover, this hearing comes at a time when there is legislation pending in Congress that seeks to both expand U.S. assistance for Pakistan as well as impose limitations and conditions on U.S. security assistance for Pakistan. And as we sit here today, it appears security conditions in Pakistan have become even more worrisome, given the Taliban’s recent eastward advance from the Swat Valley to Buner, only 60 miles or so from Islamabad.

“I agree with General Barno, Pakistan may well pose the greatest strategic challenge facing us today, with serious implications for U.S. national security, Afghanistan, and the region. I’m pleased that Congress and the administration have both prioritized issues involving Pakistan, and are committed to strengthening the U.S.-Pakistan partnership.

“But these issues are complex and progress is not likely to come easily or quickly. I believe the administration’s recent Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy is a step in the right direction. However, the strategy alone does not guarantee success – implementation of the strategy, measures of progress and accountability are all critical, as well as close cooperation with our Pakistani partners in all these areas.

“Moreover, the administration continues to request significant resources from Congress and the American people for efforts in Pakistan. Following 9-11, Pakistan has received almost $12 billion from the U.S., including about $6.4 billion in Department of Defense Coalition Support Fund reimbursements and $2.3 billion in security-related assistance. And the recent supplemental budget request includes $400 million more for the new Pakistan Counterinsurgency Capabilities Fund.

“I hope the witnesses will elaborate on this Fund – and tell us what military objectives it will achieve; why it should fall under the authority of and be executed by the Department of Defense; whether it includes any type of Commanders Emergency Response Program, or CERP, funding for Pakistan; how purchases under this Fund will be distinguished from those under the foreign military financing program; and what necessary authorities the Fund would provide the Department during the remainder of fiscal year 2009.

“I also hope the witnesses will update us on efforts to increase oversight and accountability of Coalition Support Fund reimbursements for Pakistan – and assess whether any alternative constructs could be equally or more effective. There is a growing sense, at least here in the House of Representatives, that the Coalition Support Fund construct is not serving the interests of either the U.S. or Pakistan very well, and the time is right to begin moving away from this mechanism.

“I’d also like the witnesses to share the views of the Department of Defense and the Department of State regarding limitations and conditions on U.S. security assistance for Pakistan, such as those pending in Congress now – and any recommendations for alternative approaches that could achieve the same goals and objectives. And I’d like to thank the Department of Defense for their recent letter on this matter. Finally, I would appreciate an update on the administration’s efforts to develop benchmarks for the new Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy.

“I look forward to your thoughts and recommendations. And I now turn to my good friend, the Ranking Member, John McHugh for any comments he may wish to make.”

###

Technorati Tags:
HASC (House Armed Services Committee), Pakistan

Lockheed Martin Airborne Laser Technologist Receives Missile Defense Agency Team Award

Lockheed Martin Airborne Laser Technologist Receives Missile Defense Agency Team Award

SUNNYVALE, Calif., , April 29, 2009 -- Lockheed Martin's (NYSE: LMT) Paul Shattuck, Airborne Laser (ABL) Beam Control/Fire Control chief engineer and technical director, and five of his government and industry ABL teammates have received a U.S. Missile Defense Agency Technology Pioneer Award
The award recognizes the team for achieving a host of technology breakthroughs that have culminated in a fully integrated system with the advantages of speed-of-light destruction of ballistic missile threats from a highly mobile platform. The Missile Defense Agency presented the award March 23 during the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics 7th Annual U.S. Missile Defense Conference in Washington, D.C.

Shattuck was honored for his role in developing, integrating, testing and demonstrating the Lockheed Martin-developed Beam Control/Fire Control System, which focuses and directs ABL's High Energy Laser. Also receiving the award were:

* Dr. Steven Lamberson, chief scientist, ABL Program Office, U.S. Missile Defense Agency
* Donald Clapp, chief engineer and mission assurance manager, The Boeing Company
* David Morris, chief scientist / system performance manager, Boeing
* Dr. Harold Schall, chief engineer for integration and test, and senior technical fellow, Boeing
* Jeffrey Hartlove, ABL deputy program manager, Northrop Grumman Corp.

"We are proud to be part of the ABL program and very proud to see Paul and his colleagues receive this recognition on behalf of the entire ABL government-industry team," said Doug Graham, vice president of advanced programs, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company. "This is an exciting time for this revolutionary program as we approach our ballistic missile shoot-down demonstration later this year."

Shattuck has provided the technical leadership and commitment required to design and produce a sophisticated system robust enough to aim the megawatt-class beam generated by the High Energy Laser.

The Beam Control/Fire Control system successfully focused and directed ABL's High Energy Laser beam in ground tests last year aboard ABL's modified Boeing 747-400F aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. The team now is preparing for flight testing of the entire, integrated ABL system that will culminate in an airborne intercept test against an unarmed ballistic missile later this year.

ABL is designed to destroy a ballistic missile during its boost phase, while it is still accelerating in the Earth's atmosphere and before it can deploy its warheads. The Missile Defense Agency manages the ABL program, which is executed by the U.S. Air Force from Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, N.M. The Boeing Company (NYSE: BA) provides the modified aircraft and the Battle Management System and is the overall systems integrator.

Boeing's ABL industry partners are Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC), which supplies the High Energy Laser and the Beacon Illuminator Laser, and Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company, Sunnyvale, Calif., which provides the Beam Control/Fire Control System, including the nose-mounted turret.

Lockheed Martin is a world leader in systems integration and the development of air and missile defense systems and technologies, including the first operational hit-to-kill missile. The company makes significant contributions to most major U.S. missile defense systems and participates in several global missile defense partnerships.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion

Technorati Tags:
BMD (Ballistic Missile Defence), Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT)

Boeing Airborne Laser Engineers Receive Missile Defense Agency Award

Boeing Airborne Laser Engineers Receive Missile Defense Agency Award

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2009 -- Three Boeing [NYSE: BA] Airborne Laser (ABL) engineers and three of their government and industry teammates received the Technology Pioneer Award from the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) on March 23 for advancing technologies that would enable ABL to intercept and destroy ballistic missile threats.

MDA presented the award at the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics/MDA 7th Annual Missile Defense Conference in Washington to honor the recipients' work in developing critical technologies central to implementing high-power directed energy on ABL as a new class of powerful weaponry for the warfighter. Two critical ABL components are the high-energy laser to shoot down ballistic missiles soon after they are launched, and the beam control/fire control system that points the laser beam while compensating for atmospheric turbulence. The laser, the beam control/fire control system and a state-of-the-art battle management suite are now integrated aboard the ABL aircraft, which underwent the largest modification to an airplane ever accomplished by Boeing. ABL is scheduled to perform a missile-intercept test this year.

"The six members of the joint government-industry team that received this prestigious award greatly deserve this recognition," said Michael Rinn, Boeing vice president and ABL program director. "Thanks to their technical skill, teamwork and boundless dedication, we will soon be able to demonstrate the revolutionary speed, mobility, precision and lethality that the Airborne Laser could provide to America's warfighters. ABL could change not only missile defense, but warfare in general, and these technology pioneers have blazed a path for other directed-energy weapons to follow."

The honorees are:
Don Clapp, ABL chief engineer and mission assurance manager, Boeing
Jeff Hartlove, ABL deputy program manager, Northrop Grumman
Steve Lamberson, ABL chief scientist, ABL System Program Office, MDA
Dave Morris, ABL chief scientist and system performance manager, Boeing
Harold Schall, ABL chief engineer for integration and testing, Boeing
Paul Shattuck, ABL beam control/fire control chief engineer and technical director, Lockheed Martin.

Boeing is the prime contractor and overall systems integrator for ABL,
which is designed to provide speed-of-light capability to destroy all classes of ballistic missiles in their boost phase of flight. ABL also has the potential to be deployed for other missions, including
destroying aircraft and surface-to-air missiles.

The ABL aircraft is a modified Boeing 747-400F whose back half holds the high-energy laser, designed and built by Northrop Grumman. The front section of the aircraft contains the beam control/fire control system, developed by Lockheed Martin, and the battle management system, provided by Boeing.

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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Technorati Tags:
BMD (Ballistic Missile Defence), Boeing (NYSE:BA)

Raytheon Awarded $16.5 Million Contract Extension for U.S. Navy Tactical Control System

Raytheon Awarded $16.5 Million Contract Extension for U.S. Navy Tactical Control System

System enhances Navy's unmanned ground system capabilities

FALLS CHURCH, Va., April 29, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company received a $16.5 million U.S. Navy contract to migrate the current Tactical Control System (TCS) to a Linux-based operating system and add upgrades to the system software.

"From the inception of TCS, the Navy's vision has been to develop a common unmanned aircraft ground system for multiple platforms," U.S. Navy Capt. Tim Dunigan said. "Taking TCS to the next level is a major priority for the Navy."

The contract extension will add other key capabilities, including upgrading software to control the radar and adding a universal hand control. In addition, the contract will provide support to TCS integration and testing leading to operational evaluation on the MQ-8B Fire Scout program. The Navy plans to conduct an operational evaluation on the Fire Scout with Northrop Grumman this summer.

TCS provides the Navy with an advanced unmanned aircraft system control and enables operators to train and operate on one system to simultaneously control multiple unmanned aircraft and payloads. The TCS system has been confirmed by the NATO STANAG (Standardization Agreement) Committee as being STANAG-4586 conformed and is the only unmanned system command and control software owned by the U.S. government.

Raytheon Intelligence and Information Systems is a leading provider of intelligence and information solutions, specializing in ground processing, unmanned ground systems, cybersecurity operations, homeland security and other markets to resolve the most complex problems for our customers worldwide. IIS had 2008 revenues of $3.1 billion and employs more than 9,000 engineering and technical professionals worldwide.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
Contract win, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN), USN (US Navy)

Boeing-IAI Missile Defense Interceptor Shoots Down Target in Test

Boeing-IAI Missile Defense Interceptor Shoots Down Target in Test

HUNTSVILLE, Ala., April 29, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] built part of the Arrow II interceptor that successfully shot down a ballistic missile target April 7 in a test of Israel's national missile defense system.

The operationally realistic test, conducted in Israel by the Israel Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, used an interceptor co-produced by Boeing and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and equipped with new capability enhancements.

"This successful test underscores the effectiveness of the cooperative relationship we have forged with IAI on the Arrow program and other international missile defense initiatives," said Greg Hyslop, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems. "Boeing is proud to co-produce Arrow II interceptors, which provide the state of Israel with a proven defense capability against ballistic missile threats."

The event marked the co-produced Arrow II's second intercept in two attempts, as well as its third successful flight test. The Arrow II is part of the Arrow Weapon System, which Israel and the United States have jointly developed to defend Israel against the growing threat of short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.

Under an agreement with IAI, the prime contractor for the Arrow Weapon System, Boeing provides several Arrow II interceptor components, including the Section II electronics assembly (part of the avionics and guidance subsystem); the nose cone; the canister assembly that houses the interceptor; electrical subsystems; and motor cases. IAI is responsible for system integration and final interceptor assembly in Israel.

Boeing's major suppliers on Arrow II are Alliant-Techsystems (ATK) of Iuka, Miss., and Clearfield, Utah; Manes Machine, of Fort Collins, Colo.; Patterson Machine, of Union Grove, Ala.; and Sanmina-SCI, of Huntsville, Ala.

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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Technorati Tags:
BMD (Ballistic Missile Defence), Boeing (NYSE:BA)

Raytheon Names Roketsan Key Supplier for Patriot Missile Assembly

Raytheon Names Roketsan Key Supplier for Patriot Missile Assembly

TEWKSBURY, Mass., April 29, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company has named a Turkish missile manufacturer as an international supplier of a key component of the Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical (GEM-T).

Under the agreement, Roket Sanayii ve Ticaret A.S (Roketsan) of Ankara, Turkey, will subcontract to Raytheon to integrate and test the control actuation system for the Patriot GEM-T missile for the United Arab Emirates. Working with subcontractors throughout Turkey and the United States, Roketsan will coordinate and perform the major assembly work at its Ankara facility.

Roketsan is Raytheon's first major trans-Atlantic supplier strategically located to support the 11 countries in Europe and Asia, including several in the Middle East, that have chosen Patriot as a key component of their air and missile defense programs.

"Roketsan joins Raytheon as a key strategic partner providing integrated air and missile defense to a growing number of international customers," said Sanjay Kapoor, vice president for Patriot Programs at Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS). "To have a supplier with Roketsan's track record and technical expertise located in Turkey, the crossroads between Europe and Asia, will enable us to be even more responsive to our current and potential customers in the region.

"Furthermore, Turkey is a stalwart member of NATO and is a key strategic partner of the United States," Kapoor said.

In business since 1988, Roketsan is a proven leader in missile and rocket programs and a major part of Turkey's defense industry.

"We are delighted to be working with Raytheon on the Patriot program," said Huseyin Baysak, general manager at Roketsan. "We have the engineering expertise, experience, talented people, suppliers, and facilities to produce precise and reliable control actuation system assemblies for the GEM-T. Patriot is a combat-proven system ensuring the security of so many countries from air and missile threats. We're proud to be recognized for the capabilities we bring in what has been a very successful program for a long time and is only getting better."

Raytheon IDS is the prime contractor, both domestic and international, for the Patriot Air and Missile Defense weapon system and the system integrator of the PAC-3 missile into the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) system.

Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Global Capabilities Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
BMD (Ballistic Missile Defence), Missiles, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

GENERAL DYNAMICS - Revenues increase 18 percent - EPS from continuing operations increases

GENERAL DYNAMICS - Revenues increase 18 percent - EPS from continuing operations increases
April 29, 2009

8.5 percentFALLS CHURCH, Va., April 29, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via
COMTEX/ -- General Dynamics (NYSE: GD) today reported first-quarter 2009
earnings from continuing operations of $593 million, or $1.54 per share on a fully diluted basis, compared with 2008 first-quarter earnings from
continuing operations of $573 million, or $1.42 per share fully diluted.
Revenues grew to $8.3 billion in the quarter, an 18 percent increase over first-quarter 2008 revenues of $7 billion. Net earnings for the first quarter of 2009 were $590 million, compared to $572 million in the first quarter of 2008.

"General Dynamics' performance in the first quarter of 2009 was very
strong," said Nicholas D. Chabraja, chairman and chief executive officer. "Revenues grew at double-digit rates in all four segments of the company, with double-digit organic growth in our defense businesses, demonstrating the continued strength of demand among government customers for the products and services we deliver. The growth in Aerospace revenues is attributable to the acquisition late last year of Jet Aviation."


Margins

Company-wide operating margins for the first quarter of 2009 were 11
percent, compared to 12.3 percent in the year-ago period. Marine Systems, however, increased operating margins by 90 basis points over the year-ago period to 9.8 percent, based on excellent performance on the Virginia-class, T-AKE, commercial product carrier, DDG-51 and DDG-1000 programs.


Backlog

Funded backlog at the end of first-quarter 2009 increased 23 percent from one year ago, to $49.2 billion. The company's total backlog at the end of the quarter was $71.1 billion, 43 percent higher than the $49.8 billion total backlog reported at the end of the year-ago period. In addition to the backlog, the estimated potential contract value, which represents management's estimate of value under unfunded indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts and unexercised options, was $17.9 billion at the end of first-quarter 2009.


Cash

Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations in the quarter totaled $154 million. Free cash flow from operations, defined as net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations less capital expenditures, was $73 million for the period.

"Cash provided by our defense businesses remained strong in the quarter,
while the Aerospace group was a user of cash. We expect this to correct
itself through the remainder of the year, such that free cash flow should approximate net income by year's end," Chabraja said.

"Looking ahead, we remain confident that General Dynamics is well-positioned to maximize the value of our $71 billion backlog as we continue to focus on excellent program execution and value creation for our shareholders," Chabraja said.


General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs
approximately 92,900 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about the company is available on the Internet at www.generaldynamics.com.


Certain statements made in this press release, including any statements as to future results of operations and financial projections, may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions.

These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve
certain risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual future results and trends may differ materially from what is forecast in forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors. Additional information regarding these factors is contained in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, its Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made.
The company does not undertake any obligation to update or publicly release any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances or changes in expectations after the date of this press release.

WEBCAST INFORMATION: General Dynamics will webcast its first-quarter
securities analyst conference call, scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, April 29, 2009. The webcast will be a listen-only audio event, available at www.generaldynamics.com. An on-demand replay of the webcast will be available by 1:30 p.m. April 29 and will continue for 12 months. To hear a recording of the conference call by telephone, please call 888-286-8010 (international: 617-801-6888); passcode 33671486. The phone replay will be available from 1:30 p.m. April 29 until midnight May 6, 2009.

Technorati Tags:
Financial Results, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD)

Lockheed Martin ATACMS Program Submits 5 Millionth Item to Item Unique Identification Registry

Lockheed Martin ATACMS Program Submits 5 Millionth Item to Item Unique Identification Registry

DALLAS, TX, April 28, 2009 -- The Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) team was recognized for submitting the 5 millionth item to the Item Unique Identification (IUID) Registry at a ceremony during the Department of Defense IUID forum recently in Denver, CO.

The ATACMS program was recognized for demonstrating successful IUID adoption and implementation, making asset traceability and management of critical DoD items faster and more efficient. IUID awards are presented by the UID Policy Office to individuals and teams who support and have accelerated the implementation and use of item unique identification.

LeAntha Sumpter, the senior executive who leads DoD IUID policy, recognized the ATACMS team, saying,"Lockheed Martin has been a true industry partner in the implementation of IUID. They submitted the first item to the IUID Registry, and now the 5 millionth item, and tens of thousands in between"

"Lockheed Martin, in partnership with OSD, is committed to implementation and exploitation of IUID as evidenced by our registration of the 5 millionth item from the Missiles and Fire Control business unit," said Louis Kratz, vice president of Logistics and Sustainment at Lockheed Martin.

The item that achieved the IUID Registry milestone was submitted on December 15, 2008, and was a fin subassembly of an ATACMS missile.

Accepting the recognition for the 100-member ATACMS team was Tony Wainwright, Lockheed Martin's ATACMS program director. "IUID implementation has raised the bar for our internal item management during work-in-process and assembly,” Wainwright said. “We are honored to be recognized for this submission, and recognize that over time IUID is the key to receive field use and performance data about our products."

The ATACMS program recently celebrated 18 years of on-time deliveries. More than 540 ATACMS have been fired in combat operations since 2001, with an operational reliability rate exceeding 98 percent.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

Technorati Tags:
Land Systems, Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT), Missiles

Boeing Unveils Performance, Comfort Changes to Next-Generation 737s

Boeing Unveils Performance, Comfort Changes to Next-Generation 737s

SEATTLE, April 28, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced that seven airlines will be the first to incorporate the new, spacious 737 Boeing Sky Interior starting in late 2010. The interior features soft, blue-sky-like lighting overhead.

The airlines are:
FlyDubai - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Continental Airlines - Houston
Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA - Fornebu, Norway
Malaysia Airlines - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
TUI Travel PLC - London
GOL Airlines - Sao Paulo, Brazil
Lion Air - Jakarta, Indonesia

787 Style in the World's Leading Single-Aisle Airplane

Drawing from years of research used to design the interior for the 787 Dreamliner, the 737 Boeing Sky Interior features new, 787-style modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals that draw passengers' eyes to the airplane's windows, giving passengers a greater connection to the flying experience. On a more practical note, the sidewall design integrates the air vent so that before-flight security checks go more quickly for maintenance staff.

The new design offers larger, pivoting overhead stowage bins that add to the openness of the cabin. The bins give more passengers room to store a carry-on roll-aboard near their own seat, adding both extra convenience and extra legroom.

Boeing redesigned reading-light switches so passengers can find them more easily and avoid accidentally pressing the flight-attendant call button.

Speakers are integrated into each row's passenger-service unit to improve sound and clarity of public address operations, while the new integrated air vent and improved noise-dampening materials reduce overall cabin noise.

More efficient, more clean
Changes to the Next-Generation 737 are more than cosmetic: Boeing is targeting a 2 percent reduction in fuel consumption by 2011 through a combination of airframe and engine improvements. Airplane structural improvements will reduce drag on the airplane, reducing fuel use by about 1 percent. Boeing's engine partner, CFM, is contributing the other 1 percent fuel savings through hardware changes to its engine.
Continental Airlines will make a Next-Generation 737-800 available to Boeing to flight test the performance improvements.
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Technorati Tags:
Boeing (NYSE:BA)

Raytheon's GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II Completes First Control Test Vehicle Flight

Raytheon's GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II Completes First Control Test Vehicle Flight
April 28, 2009

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla., April 28, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company launched its first GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb II as a control test vehicle (CTV) flight.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E fighter aircraft released the GBU-53/B in flight. After safely separating from the aircraft, the weapon deployed its wings, performed a series of preprogrammed maneuvers and flew to a predesignated position. The mission met all primary test objectives.

"The success of the CTV flight proves Raytheon's GBU-53/B is on track to demonstrate our low-risk entry into engineering manufacturing development," said Harry Schulte, Raytheon Missile Systems vice president of Air Warfare Systems. "GBU-53/B's improved tri-mode seeker represents the most cost-effective, low-risk and highly capable solution for the warfighter to eliminate moving targets in adverse weather."

The seeker on Raytheon's GBU-53/B leverages the company's experience with the proven Non Line-of-Sight-Launch System Precision Attack Missile.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

Technorati Tags:
Missiles, Raytheon (NYSE:RTN)

Boeing Reports Quarterly Dividend of 42 Cents a Share

Boeing Reports Quarterly Dividend of 42 Cents a Share

CHICAGO, April 28, 2009 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Jim McNerney reports that the board of directors today declared a regular quarterly dividend of forty two (42) cents per share.
The dividend is payable June 5 to shareholders of record as of May 8.
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Technorati Tags:
Boeing (NYSE:BA), Financial Results

Boeing, Danish Aerotech Sign MOU for Super Hornet Support

Boeing, Danish Aerotech Sign MOU for Super Hornet Support

KARUP, Denmark, April 28, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and civil defense and aerospace company Danish Aerotech today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines opportunities for Danish Aerotech to provide select F/A-18E/F Super Hornet logistics support capabilities. If the Royal Danish Air Force names the Super Hornet as its New Combat Aircraft, Boeing and Danish Aerotech could partner in a Performance Based Logistics (PBL) program for long-term support of the strike fighter aircraft and other platforms.

"This MOU is of high value to our company," said Danish Aerotech CEO Søren E. Petersen. "With its wide scope of business in the defense industry and as a leading manufacturer of civilian and military aircraft, Boeing is an extremely attractive partner for Danish Aerotech. We look forward to further developing our core capabilities and jointly working with Boeing on new areas of support that are of strategic, long-term value to Danish Aerotech, as well as providing a considerable boost to revenue and employment."

Boeing and Danish Aerotech may also pursue opportunities related to training; PBL contracting; maintenance, repair and overhaul; and build-to-print activities across Boeing's portfolio of programs for some of the world's most advanced military aircraft and rotorcraft.

"Boeing has long been an innovator in Performance Based Logistics, and leveraging Danish Aerotech's expertise in aircraft and component maintenance and repair could further boost our strength in delivering mission readiness to our customers," said Tom Bell, vice president of Business Development for Boeing Military Aircraft.

Boeing instituted the PBL model a decade ago to address maintenance and repair support as a total integrated task. PBL contracts allow the customer to comprehensively purchase a set level of readiness instead of paying for parts or services on a more expensive transactional basis. The PBL approach continually improves the cost-effectiveness of logistics products and services.

Danish Aerotech is a civil defense and aerospace company specializing in the development, production, installation and support of mechanical, electrical and electronic parts and components for aircraft, helicopters, missiles and targeting systems, as well as maintenance, modifications and integration of aircraft, missiles and associated components.

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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Technorati Tags:
Boeing (NYSE:BA), F-18 Hornet

Raytheon and HAVELSAN Partner for FFG 7 Fleet Modernization With GENESIS Program

Raytheon and HAVELSAN Partner for FFG 7 Fleet Modernization With GENESIS Program
April 28, 2009

TEWKSBURY, Mass., and ANKARA, Turkey, April 28, 2009 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company's Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) and HAVELSAN Inc. have signed a teaming agreement to cooperatively market the GENESIS Ship Integrated Combat Management System for surface ships of navies worldwide.

GENESIS successfully completed at-sea testing and delivery of the first system in 2007. The second and third ships were tested and delivered in 2008. GENESIS was developed for integration, including development; hardware and software testing; training; and maintenance services onboard eight of the frigates that are part of the Turkish fleet.

Originally initiated and designed by the Turkish Naval Forces Command for the modernization of USS OLIVER HAZARD PERRY (FFG 7) class frigates, GENESIS has been upgraded and implemented by HAVELSAN. Raytheon provided fire control and electronic warfare system modifications.

"In the context of such projects, the most challenging phase is the first delivery. With the delivery of the third ship, GENESIS is a tested and proven solution," said Dr. Faruk A. Yarman, CEO of HAVELSAN.

"Today, the GENESIS-implemented frigates are preferred for critical missions, such as the participation of the TCG Giresun as part of an international joint task force fighting increasing piracy in the Gulf of Aden. With the GENESIS system -- originally developed by the Turkish Navy and transferred to HAVELSAN after the completion of successful sea trials -- FFG 7 class frigates around the world can significantly improve their combat intelligence and ability to take action to counter threats."

Raytheon IDS' Charles "Tom" Bush, vice president of Seapower Capability Systems, said:

"The GENESIS solution transforms the FFG 7 combat system, giving it outstanding capability to meet today's threats by improving sensor integration, information management, and by reducing reaction times -- all critical capabilities for a modern, front-line combatant. Together, the Raytheon-HAVELSAN team has provided a complete and affordable solution to modernize and optimize the effectiveness of these tough, multi-mission ships in service in allied fleets around the world."

The cooperation of HAVELSAN and Raytheon in the marketing and implementation of the GENESIS program targets the FFG 7 fleets around the world. The GENESIS system guarantees optimization and effectiveness in the naval combat management. The GENESIS system enhances the ships' situational awareness and accelerates the defense capabilities, decreasing the detect-to-engage reaction time by more than half.

HAVELSAN Inc., which is a Turkish Armed Forces Foundation company, is active in the fields of C4ISR (Command, Control, Communication, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance Systems), Naval Combat Systems, Air Defence Systems, Management Information Systems, Simulation and Training Systems, Homeland Security Systems and Energy Management Systems. By internalizing a collaborative business model in the international standards with its worldwide offices and agencies, HAVELSAN is a high-tech company that has special experience and unique capabilities in the field of the design, development, manufacture, test and installation of defense systems both in and abroad, particularly in the naval combat systems.

Integrated Defense Systems is Raytheon's leader in Global Capabilities Integration providing affordable, integrated solutions to a broad international and domestic customer base, including the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Armed Forces and the Department of Homeland Security.

Raytheon Company , with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

Lockheed Martin-Led Industry Team Awarded Phase 3

Lockheed Martin-Led Industry Team Awarded Phase 3

PALMDALE, Calif., April 27, 2009 -- The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has selected Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] as the systems integrator and Raytheon Company [NYSE: RTN] as the radar developer for Phase 3 of its Integrated Sensor is Structure (ISIS) program.

Under the contract valued at just under $400 million, Lockheed Martin will lead an industry team in the design, build, test and flight-demonstration of a one-third scale airship featuring Raytheon's new, low-power density radar. The autonomous flight test system will operate on station for 90 days, proving several key technologies with an anticipated total demonstration of one year.

"The development of high energy density power systems, an extremely lightweight radar solution and an advanced flexible composite material were necessary to make a stratospheric airship like ISIS possible," said Eric Hofstatter, Lockheed Martin ISIS program manager. "This is an extremely advanced machine that represents a dramatically different approach to persistent real-time intelligence gathering and to the overarching utility of airships."

Raytheon's ground-breaking radar capability is an integral component of the airship structural design. The active electronically scanned array antenna will transmit on UHF and X-band from within the airship.

"The operational goal for ISIS is to look for airborne and ground-based targets and to communicate directly with the battlefield from a single antenna for up to 10 years," said Michael Wechsberg, director of radio frequency systems programs for Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems.

The ISIS program will develop the core technologies necessary to demonstrate an extremely capable radar sensor package within the structure of a stratospheric airship, operating at approximately 70,000 feet. ISIS Phase 3 will demonstrate the next step to providing unblinking, mission-critical data to the war fighter from its continuous position on-station.

Raytheon Company, with 2008 sales of $23.2 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 87 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 73,000 people worldwide.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

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F-35 Arrives In The United Kingdom For Static Testing

F-35 Arrives In The United Kingdom For Static Testing

FORT WORTH, Texas, April 27, 2009

A Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter designed for ground testing is loaded onto a ship at the Port of Houston on April 5 before its voyage to a BAE Systems testing facility in Brough, England. The F-35 arrived safely on April 27.

After a three-week ocean voyage, a static-test version of the Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] F-35 Lightning II, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter, has arrived in the United Kingdom. The F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant aircraft, called AG-1, will undergo testing in the Structural and Dynamic Test facility at BAE Systems' site in Brough, East Yorkshire, England.

Mick Ord, BAE Systems' managing director of the F-35 Lightning II business said, "This is another major milestone in the F-35 program and we're delighted to take delivery of the full-scale static testing airframe. BAE Systems is a principal subcontractor to Lockheed Martin on the F-35 program and brings military aircraft expertise that is critical to the F-35 Lightning II airframe and systems. We lead on several work share areas, of which structural testing is one."AG-1 began its travels on March 27 at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth, Tex., plant. It was shipped overland to the Texas coast, where it was placed aboard a U.K.-bound cargo ship. AG-1 is one of six static test airframes constructed for the System Development and Demonstration phase of the F-35 Lightning II program, which is developing and validating all of the aircraft's systems and manufacturing techniques. Another 13 F-35s are dedicated to flight testing.

"The work BAE Systems is performing on AG-1 highlights just one of the United Kingdom's many indigenous industrial capabilities that this program relies upon," said Tom Burbage, Lockheed Martin executive vice president and general manager of F-35 Program Integration. "We are conducting the largest-ever test program for a fighter, and the BAE Systems structural test facilities expand our bandwidth and help us maintain our schedule."

Ord added, "BAE Systems is responsible for carrying out a large percentage of the structural and fatigue testing required to qualify all three of the F-35 variants. Some testing has been carried out on smaller components, but this will be among the first of the full airframe tests to be carried out."

The Structural and Dynamic Test Facility at Brough is BAE Systems' center of excellence for structural testing, responsible for providing evidence that airframes meet the design requirements for structural strength and durability.

The F-35 airframe will be connected to a highly complex test rig in which 165 hydraulic actuators will replicate the loads the aircraft would see in flight. The data from the test will be captured by 4,000 sensors bonded to the airframe.

The test rig itself weighs around 365 tons and has approximately 53 miles (85km) of wiring spread around it to connect all the systems and sensors. The computing power available to control the load applications is roughly the equivalent of 25 high-specification personal computers.

Testing is planned to begin in late July and will take about 15 months, certifying the strength of the airframe and its components and contributing to the aircraft's flight envelope expansion requirements. Upon completion of its static testing program, AG-1 will be shipped back to the U.S.

The F-35 is being built in three variants: conventional takeoff and landing, short takeoff/ vertical landing (STOVL) and carrier variant (CV). CTOL and CV durability airframe tests will also be undertaken at BAE Systems Brough site. Static testing of other F-35 airframes is under way at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth facility.

In March, the U.K. Ministry of Defence announced it intends to order three instrumented STOVL F-35 Lightning II test aircraft and associated support equipment for Operational Test and Evaluation purposes.

BackgroundThe F-35 airframe, AG-1, departed Lockheed Martin's site at Fort Worth, Texas, on April 5, crossing the Atlantic by ship before arriving at the port of Hull on April 24. The airframe was transferred by barge up the river Humber, and lifted by crane onto BAE Systems' Brough site on the morning of April 25.

The airframe was transported with wings and canopy installed to the main fuselage, and was shrink-wrapped to provide protection against the elements. The resulting shipment was 51 feet long, 35 feet wide and 13.5 feet high, and weighed some 22 tons.

The Structural and Dynamic Test Facility has been performing to the highest standards for over 50 years. The Brough facility is a modern, purpose designed complex, comprising four large test halls, development laboratories and supporting infrastructure. Currently also undergoing test in the Structural and Dynamic Test Facility are Nimrod MRA4, Hawk and Typhoon airframes.The F-35 Lightning II is being designed and built by an aerospace industry consortium led by Lockheed Martin with Northrop Grumman and

BAE Systems as major partners. It will be the biggest defense production program of its type, spanning 30-plus years, and potentially delivering over 3,000 F-35 Lightning II aircraft worldwide. Two separate, interchangeable F-35 engines are under development: the Pratt & Whitney F135 and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team F136.

BAE Systems brings key capabilities to the F-35 program, including a unique heritage in short takeoff/ vertical landing aircraft, advanced lean manufacturing techniques, design and development expertise, and experience of delivering innovative support to in-service aircraft.

BAE Systems currently employs over 1,000 people on the program, at various locations across the United Kingdom and the United States. The aft fuselage and the vertical and horizontal tails for the F-35 Lightning II are designed, manufactured and assembled by BAE Systems at the Samlesbury site in Lancashire, England.

About BAE Systems

BAE Systems is the premier global defence, security and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. With approximately 105,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £18.5 billion (US $34.4 billion) in 2008.

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S.A., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion (£29.1 billion).

F-35 and Lightning II are trademarks of Lockheed Martin Corporation.

After a three-week ocean voyage, a static-test version of the Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] F-35 Lightning II, also known as the Joint Strike Fighter, has arrived in the United Kingdom. The F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant aircraft, called AG-1, will undergo testing in the Structural and Dynamic Test facility at BAE Systems' site in Brough, East Yorkshire, England.

Mick Ord, BAE Systems' managing director of the F-35 Lightning II business said, "This is another major milestone in the F-35 program and we're delighted to take delivery of the full-scale static testing airframe. BAE Systems is a principal subcontractor to Lockheed Martin on the F-35 program and brings military aircraft expertise that is critical to the F-35 Lightning II airframe and systems. We lead on several work share areas, of which structural testing is one." AG-1 began its travels on March 27 at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth, Tex., plant. It was shipped overland to the Texas coast, where it was placed aboard a U.K.-bound cargo ship. AG-1 is one of six static test airframes constructed for the System Development and Demonstration phase of the F-35 Lightning II program, which is developing and validating all of the aircraft's systems and manufacturing techniques. Another 13 F-35s are dedicated to flight testing.

"The work BAE Systems is performing on AG-1 highlights just one of the United Kingdom's many indigenous industrial capabilities that this program relies upon," said Tom Burbage, Lockheed Martin executive vice president and general manager of F-35 Program Integration. "We are conducting the largest-ever test program for a fighter, and the BAE Systems structural test facilities expand our bandwidth and help us maintain our schedule."

Ord added, "BAE Systems is responsible for carrying out a large percentage of the structural and fatigue testing required to qualify all three of the F-35 variants. Some testing has been carried out on smaller components, but this will be among the first of the full airframe tests to be carried out."

The Structural and Dynamic Test Facility at Brough is BAE Systems' center of excellence for structural testing, responsible for providing evidence that airframes meet the design requirements for structural strength and durability.
The F-35 airframe will be connected to a highly complex test rig in which 165 hydraulic actuators will replicate the loads the aircraft would see in flight. The data from the test will be captured by 4,000 sensors bonded to the airframe.

The test rig itself weighs around 365 tons and has approximately 53 miles (85km) of wiring spread around it to connect all the systems and sensors. The computing power available to control the load applications is roughly the equivalent of 25 high-specification personal computers.

Testing is planned to begin in late July and will take about 15 months, certifying the strength of the airframe and its components and contributing to the aircraft's flight envelope expansion requirements. Upon completion of its static testing program, AG-1 will be shipped back to the U.S.
The F-35 is being built in three variants: conventional takeoff and landing, short takeoff/ vertical landing (STOVL) and carrier variant (CV). CTOL and CV durability airframe tests will also be undertaken at BAE Systems Brough site. Static testing of other F-35 airframes is under way at Lockheed Martin's Fort Worth facility.

In March, the U.K. Ministry of Defence announced it intends to order three instrumented STOVL F-35 Lightning II test aircraft and associated support equipment for Operational Test and Evaluation purposes.

BackgroundThe F-35 airframe, AG-1, departed Lockheed Martin's site at Fort Worth, Texas, on April 5, crossing the Atlantic by ship before arriving at the port of Hull on April 24. The airframe was transferred by barge up the river Humber, and lifted by crane onto BAE Systems' Brough site on the morning of April 25.
The airframe was transported with wings and canopy installed to the main fuselage, and was shrink-wrapped to provide protection against the elements. The resulting shipment was 51 feet long, 35 feet wide and 13.5 feet high, and weighed some 22 tons.

The Structural and Dynamic Test Facility has been performing to the highest standards for over 50 years. The Brough facility is a modern, purpose designed complex, comprising four large test halls, development laboratories and supporting infrastructure. Currently also undergoing test in the Structural and Dynamic Test Facility are Nimrod MRA4, Hawk and Typhoon airframes.The F-35 Lightning II is being designed and built by an aerospace industry consortium led by Lockheed Martin with Northrop Grumman and

BAE Systems as major partners. It will be the biggest defense production program of its type, spanning 30-plus years, and potentially delivering over 3,000 F-35 Lightning II aircraft worldwide. Two separate, interchangeable F-35 engines are under development: the Pratt & Whitney F135 and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team F136.

BAE Systems brings key capabilities to the F-35 program, including a unique heritage in short takeoff/ vertical landing aircraft, advanced lean manufacturing techniques, design and development expertise, and experience of delivering innovative support to in-service aircraft.
BAE Systems currently employs over 1,000 people on the program, at various locations across the United Kingdom and the United States. The aft fuselage and the vertical and horizontal tails for the F-35 Lightning II are designed, manufactured and assembled by BAE Systems at the Samlesbury site in Lancashire, England.

About BAE Systems

BAE Systems is the premier global defence, security and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. With approximately 105,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £18.5 billion (US $34.4 billion) in 2008.

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S.A., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion (£29.1 billion).

F-35 and Lightning II are trademarks of Lockheed Martin Corporation.

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747-8 Intercontinental Passes 25 Percent Design Milestone

747-8 Intercontinental Passes 25 Percent Design Milestone

EVERETT, Wash., April 27, 2009 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has passed a major milestone in the design of the 747-8 Intercontinental, completing 25 percent of the design releases for the new passenger airplane. This means a quarter of the information needed to build parts and tools for assembly has been completed and released for fabrication or procurement. "We have made tremendous progress on the design engineering," said Mo Yahyavi, vice president and general manager for the 747 Program. "The engineering is proceeding as planned and we are a step closer to bringing the 747-8 Intercontinental to market."
Since much of the design is the same as the 747-8 Freighter, which Boeing is building first, the engineering focus is on work that is unique to the 747-8 Intercontinental, comprising mostly fuselage and interior design. The most obvious difference is that the 747-8 Intercontinental fuselage will boast an extended upper deck.

On the interior, the airplane will incorporate features from the 787 Dreamliner, including a new curved, upswept architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The architecture will be accentuated by lighting technology that provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight.

"The 747 family has been a favorite among passengers," said Michael Teal, 747-8 chief project engineer. "The 747-8 Intercontinental will build on the memorable experiences they've had on a 747. The moment passengers step aboard a 747-8 Intercontinental, they will know it's a brand new airplane and enjoy a more relaxing flying experience."
As for the airplane's performance, the 747-8 will be stretched 18.3 feet (5.6 meters) from the 747-400 to provide 467 seats in a three-class configuration and a range of approximately 8,000 nautical miles (14,815 kilometers). It will deliver nearly equivalent trip costs to those of the 747-400 and 13 percent lower seat-mile costs, plus 26 percent greater cargo volume. The 747-8 Intercontinental also will be 16 percent more fuel efficient and create a 30 percent smaller noise footprint than its predecessor.

"The 747-8 Intercontinental will be a great airplane for our customers," said Yahyavi. "Our team is focused on completing the remaining detailed design needed to deliver the airplane in late 2011."

The 747-8, which includes the 747-8 Intercontinental and the 747-8 Freighter, was launched in November 2005 by Cargolux Airlines and Nippon Cargo Airlines. Lufthansa was the first airline to order the 747-8 Intercontinental in December 2006.
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