Boeing Delivers Sixth C-40A Clipper to U.S. Naval Reserve
Boeing has delivered the sixth C-40A Clipper -- a modified 737-700 "combi" airplane -- to the U.S. Naval Reserve Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 58, based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.
Since 1997, the Navy has ordered six C-40As to begin replacing its aging fleet of 29 C-9B Skytrain aircraft used to transport cargo and passengers. The first Boeing C-40A was delivered to the Naval Reserve in April 2001.
"This delivery is a tribute to the outstanding teamwork between Boeing and the U.S. Naval Reserve," said Rich Reinheimer, Boeing C-40A program manager. "We have a long history of working together, and Boeing looks forward to further supporting the Naval Reserve's airlift needs."
With its superior performance and range, 21st century avionics and quiet, fuel-efficient engines, the C-40A will increase the Navy's capability for rapid response to the fleet's aircraft requirements. A military version of the 737, the world's most popular jetliner, the C-40A is certified to operate in an all-passenger configuration (121 passengers), an all-cargo variant or a "combi" configuration that will accommodate up to three cargo pallets and 70 passengers on the main deck.
The 737 aircraft is manufactured by Boeing in Renton, Wash., then moves on to the company's facility in Wichita, Kan., where it receives modifications and certification.
Boeing also established a good teaming relationship with its customer on the support side. The Naval Reserve provides the line maintenance on the aircraft. Boeing, with its industry partner, Delta Air Lines, is on contract for three years of initial logistics support providing site support, spares management and heavy maintenance.
Three C-40 aircraft are based at Naval Air Station Carswell Joint Reserve Base, Ft. Worth, Texas. The sixth C-40A will join two others at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.
The C-40A program is part of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems -- one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $23 billion business. It provides systems solutions to its global military, government and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; 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 launch services.
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