Boeing

Boeing [NYSE:BA] has delivered on-time and on-budget the first U.S. AH-64A Apache combat helicopter refurbished under the new Reset Support program.

Working with the U.S. Army customer, Boeing developed the program to speed the time it takes to return heavily used Apache helicopters to active service, while ensuring the work is cost effective. The aircraft, which had sustained damage and wear after operating in the harsh environments of Iraq , Afghanistan and Kosovo, was delivered two days ahead of schedule.

Boeing is repairing 15 aircraft, both AH-64A Apaches and next-generation AH-64D Apache Longbows, under the Reset program. Work is performed at the Boeing Williams Gateway modification facility in Mesa, Ariz., with support from the nearby Boeing Mesa site, where the Apache is built.

"The Reset program takes advantage of our ability to adapt to the needs of our customer and offer timely solutions," said Dan Anglim, Mesa site leader for the Boeing Aerospace Support organization, which manages the repair program . "The payoff for our customer is we're returning these aircraft to active service well below the Department of the Army goal of 71 days."

The Williams Gateway site performs a wide variety of modification, upgrade and repair work for the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force. Programs include the T-38 Avionics Upgrade Program, maintenance trainers and support for the Apache helicopter, as well as a variety of structural repair and overhaul work for the F/A-18 Hornet and F-15 Eagle.

Boeing is delivering 501 AH-64Ds to the U.S. Army through the year 2006, under two multi-year contracts. Boeing builds AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters for the U.S. Army and for several international defense forces.