Boeing

Boeing (NYSE: BA) delivered the 200th T-38C Talon jet trainer modified as part of the T-38 Avionics Upgrade Program (AUP) to the United States Air Force yesterday.

Deliveries of the upgraded T-38 began in November 2000 following an engineering and manufacturing development program. The more than 80 Boeing people who work on the T-38 AUP program at Williams Gateway Airport have implemented numerous lean techniques, reducing cycle time and delivering aircraft to the customer ahead of schedule.

The 200th upgraded T-38 will be stationed with the Air Education and Training Command's 560th Flying Training Squadron, Randolph Air Force Base, Texas.

"The Air Education and Training Command has constantly sought out improvements in flying operations," said General Don Cook, AETC Commander. "The Avionics Upgrade Program is part of our Pacer Classic initiative that will extend the life of these advanced supersonic trainers until 2020. The program will significantly improve the avionics reliability of the T-38 and reduce support costs for the Air Force. The program also allows the Air Force to meet new national airspace requirements."

"Since inception, the program has performed at 100 percent on time delivery, " said David Spong, president of Aerospace Support for Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. "These improved aircraft can help prepare men and women to wear the silver wings of an Air Force pilot."

Under the T-38 Avionics Upgrade Program, Boeing is upgrading more than 500 of the advanced-jet training aircraft. The jets feature a large-field-of-view head-up display in the front cockpit; multi-functional displays, electronic engine displays and up-front control panels in both cockpits; an integrated global positioning system/inertial navigation system; and a traffic collision avoidance system.