Boeing

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has received a U.S. Air Force contract to begin modifying the C-130 Aircrew Training System as part of the C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP).

The undefinitized contract, with a value not to exceed $56.3 million, includes the modification of the first simulator and other training devices in preparation for the delivery of C-130 AMP aircraft. A team consisting of Boeing, CAE and Lockheed Martin will design, develop, install and test the training system modification. The Air Force plans to field the first C-130 AMP aircraft in 2009.

"The first simulator will be installed at the C-130 Flying Training Unit at Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas," said Mike Harris, vice president and C-130 program manager for Boeing. "This contract demonstrates the confidence the Air Force has in Boeing to complete the C-130 AMP aircraft modification and deliver the aircraft into the hands of the warfighters."

Under C-130 AMP, Boeing is developing a major upgrade to most Air Force C-130 aircraft. The upgrade will replace the old "round dial" instruments with state-of-the-art "glass cockpit" displays, including a heads-up display, or HUD, for pilots. AMP will bring the C-130 into compliance with current navigation and safety requirements, standardize the avionics across the C-130 fleet, improve reliability, eliminate the requirement for a navigator in most of the aircraft and reduce aircraft life cycle costs.