Boeing

The Boeing Company has been awarded a $38.7 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to manufacture reengine kits and modify the KC-135 and RC-135 aircraft to "R"-model configuration. The contract was awarded by the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center at Tinker Air Force Base.

The firm fixed-price contract calls for Boeing to provide fabrication and assembly of three reengine kits for RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft along with the installation of previously procured reengine kits on three RC-135 aircraft and two KC-135 aircraft. This award, along with $1.78 million in advance funding awarded in November 2000, brings the total value of this work to $40.5 million.

The KC/RC-135 reengine program involves replacing the current Pratt & Whitney TF33 engines with higher thrust, quieter and more fuel-efficient CFM56 engines. Additionally, new struts, engine nacelles and other significant system upgrades are incorporated during the reengine process.

"Boeing is pleased to continue supporting the Air Force in modernizing these important strategic aircraft," said Randy Eno, KC-135 programs manager for the Wichita Maintenance and Modification Center, part of the Boeing Military Aerospace Support business. "The long-running reengine program is a great example of the value generated by our long-term partnership with the Air Force to modernize and support these aircraft."

Completion of the reengine kits included in this award will bring the total number of KC/RC-135 kits produced by Boeing to 460. Since the program began in 1982, Boeing has installed reengines kits on 444 KC/RC-135 aircraft at its Wichita facility.

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