The E-7 Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft is the U . S . Air Force ' s solution to replace the E-3 Airborne Warning & Control System , known to many as AWACS . ( Boeing photo )
Design work for the U . S . Air Force E-7 AEW & C ( Airborne Early Warning & Control ) aircraft is also taking place in the Puget Sound region .
The portfolio features commercial derivative products — like the Pegasus and Poseidon — that share the same airframes as their commercial cousins . Leveraging an existing design of an airframe with thousands in service around the globe creates remarkable production and lifecycle sustainment advantages for Boeing ’ s military customers . Of course , our defense aircraft are purpose-built and modified to meet the needs of the military customer .
Speaking of commercial aircraft , MS & B builds parts for the 777X — which will be the world ’ s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet — in the Pacific Northwest . This is another example of a united and collaborative production effort between employees from the two business units , BDS and Boeing Commercials Airplanes ( BCA ).
MS & B also includes bombers , like the B-52 Stratofortress . The B-52 is a long-range bomber once built in Seattle that has been in service since the 1950s . It continues to undergo upgrades that will allow it to contribute to the U . S . National Security Strategy for decades to come .
MS & B ’ s mission is delivering advanced military solutions for refueling , mobility , reconnaissance and early warning , and deterrence . Along with the rest of our BDS colleagues , we recognize and embrace that our work is mission critical , and it drives all that we do .
Q : What is the current demand for MS & B products and how are these aircraft adapting to meet the needs of the customer ?
A : Our products are performing well for our customers , and they are needed in today ’ s global security environment to maintain peace .
We continue to see a strong demand for our products — especially the products built in the Pacific Northwest — because of their reliability and proven performance , as well as the advanced capabilities they provide for the modern mission , such as data connectivity .
Data is the most important strength in the battlespace right now . Victory belongs to the side with decision superiority . The ability to know and make sense of a complex situation , then act smarter and more swiftly — that is who wins . Our portfolio puts data connectivity in the field now , and we are working with the U . S . Air Force and allies to evolve it .
The E-7 is a great example of maintaining peace through strength . This platform provides unparalleled ability to scan the battlespace , communicate with surface , ground and air assets and enable integration across the joint force . These advantages allow it to “ conduct ” its peers , just like a maestro in front of their world-class orchestra .
FEBRUARY | MARCH 2024 ISSUE NO . 37 19