Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the Japan Defense Agency, along with the trading company ITOCHU, have signed the contract for the first aircraft of the Japan Air Self Defense Force 767 Tanker Transport program.

The program includes four aircraft and support.

"The 767 Tanker Transport has established itself as the preeminent aircraft to meet Japan's commitment to international cooperation, including humanitarian aid, and to meet the air-refueling needs of Japan and countries around the globe," said Bob Gower, vice president of 767 Tanker Programs for Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. "We are proud to provide this important capability to the Japan Air Self Defense Force, and are committed to satisfying this important customer."

The first aircraft is scheduled for delivery to Japan in the spring of 2007. The final delivery is expected to be in 2010.

Japan became the second customer for the 767 Tanker Transport when it competitively selected the aircraft in December 2001. The Italian Air Force will receive the first of its four 767 Tanker Transports in late 2005.

The 767 Tanker Transport selected by Japan is a military derivative of the proven 767-200ER commercial aircraft. It will be configured with an advanced Boeing air-refueling boom and an advanced Remote Aerial Refueling Operator system.

The Convertible Freighter configuration selected by Japan provides the flexibility to carry either cargo or passengers. This capability is especially important to support U.N.-sponsored peacekeeping operations and humanitarian activities.

The 767 is unique in the market as the "right-sized" aircraft for the air-refueling and transport missions, delivering the optimal performance in fuel-offload, mission range and cargo capacity as well as low operating costs.

The preeminent manufacturer of air-refueling aircraft, Boeing has delivered almost 2,000 tanker aircraft, as well as 99 percent of all air-refueling booms ever made.