Boeing and BAE Systems Australia Sign World Teaming Agreement
The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and BAE Systems Australia Limited, today signed a world teaming agreement to work closely together to capture future airborne early warning and control business.
"This is a great fit for two world-class companies," said Patrick Gill, Boeing vice president of 737 AEW&C programs. "Boeing has more than 30 years experience in developing and integrating airborne early warning and control systems, while BAE Systems brings capabilities in engineering and systems integration, support services, electronics and software."
"This agreement confirms the strong working relationship between our companies and builds on the capability partnership developed through the Wedgetail program. We look forward to a long and mutually rewarding relationship with Boeing as both our companies strive to capture global market opportunities," said Jim McDowell, CEO of BAE Systems Australia.
A Boeing-led team, including BAE Systems, is currently developing a 737 airborne early warning and control system for Australia's Project Wedgetail. At its facility in Adelaide, BAE Systems is providing two mission support segments, an operational mission simulator, electronic warfare self protection and electronic support measures.
Under the world teaming agreement Boeing and BAE Systems will use their complementary capabilities in responding to request for proposals from potential customers around the world.
The first Wedgetail aircraft had a successful maiden flight in May 2004 and is now undergoing a comprehensive FAA airworthiness certification program.
Australia has purchased six aircraft. Delivery of the first two aircraft currently being modified in Seattle is scheduled for 2006, with the other four aircraft delivered by 2008.
Turkey also is under contract for four 737 AEW&C aircraft and mission system design activities are well underway. The first aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2007.
The 737 AEW&C is based on the Boeing Next Generation 737-700 featuring 21st century avionics, navigation equipment, and flight deck.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $30.5 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; the world's largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense; NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in sustainment solutions and launch services.
BAE Systems Australia employs approximately 2,600 people, supports customers at more than 50 locations across the country and has its centre of operations in Adelaide, South Australia. It has key skills in engineering and systems integration and is a leading supplier of electronic warfare, communications, military air support, air defence, software and support services to the Australian Defence Force.
###
For further information:
Shelley Mearns
BAE Systems
office: +61 (0) 8 8480 7211
mobile: +61 (0) 402 890 760
BAE Systems
office: +61 (0) 8 8480 7211
mobile: +61 (0) 402 890 760