Boeing

Boeing [NYSE:BA] recently delivered 16 airborne satellite communications systems to the U.S. Air Force that will enhance aircrew's real-time situation awareness in the cockpit.

The Air Force took delivery of first 16 of 61 systems, known as Combat Track II, as part of a $28 million order, with an option to purchase additional systems. Boeing will also provide software engineering, systems integration and on-site installation support.

"These systems will enable the Air Force to complete real-time monitoring and respond to threats more quickly, which is a vital element of network centric operations," said Brian Knutsen, general manager of Boeing's Space and Intelligence Systems Mission Systems.

"This award demonstrates Boeing is providing the needed capabilities to support the Air Force's transformation mission," Knutsen said. "The Combat Track II systems will be deployed to locations throughout the globe. This delivery is part of an on-going effort to provide the U.S. Air Force with airborne intelligence systems that enhance real-time situation awareness in the cockpit, increase aircrew survivability and improve airframe utilization."

Boeing's Mission Systems team also supplies the Air Force with another airborne system, known as Airborne Broadcast Intelligence (ABI), which receives, integrates, and correlates national Intelligence and theater tactical broadcasts aboard various military aircraft. Boeing is delivering 40 ABI systems to be installed on military aircraft, including the C-130 Hercules and the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III.