U.S. Air Force Approves Full-rate Production for T-6A Texan II

Search Blogs that Mention this News Release
Click this link to view linked Bookmarking Services
Click this link to view linked Blogging Services
U.S. Air Force Approves Full-rate Production for T-6A Texan II
    WICHITA, Kan., Dec. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Air Force has issued an
Acquisition Decision Memorandum that approves full-rate production for
Raytheon Aircraft's T-6A Texan II primary trainer.
    The decision, known as Milestone III, is a confirmation that the T-6A
meets all U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy requirements, and that the program is
ensured a long-term future. The services are expected to purchase nearly 800
of the aircraft through the year 2017.
    "We expected this decision and are pleased that the USAF recognizes the
safety and capability of the T-6A. The T-6A is ideally suited for its mission
to train new pilots. The T-6A met all USAF/USN operational key performance
parameters," said David Riemer, vice president - Government Business for
Raytheon Aircraft.
    The T-6A training system became operational at Moody AFB with the class of
student pilots in November 2001. In addition the T-6A has won the two major
international competitions. The NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) program
flies 24 T-6As and has been training student pilots for a year, and the
Hellenic Air Force of Greece started student pilot training in September 2001
with delivery of 17 of the 45 aircraft ordered.
    Raytheon Aircraft also developed a comprehensive Ground Based Training
System (GBTS) that provides an integrated package of courseware, syllabi,
academic training and computerized data management. The GBTS is completely
integrated with the air vehicle to provide a total training system through
three major areas: curriculum, aircrew training devices (Tads) and the
training integration management system (TIMS).
    Raytheon Aircraft, based in Wichita, Kan., designs, manufactures, markets
and supports jet, turboprop and piston-powered aircraft for the world's
commercial, military and regional airline markets.  It had revenues of $3.2
billion in 2000.
    With headquarters in Lexington, Mass., Raytheon Company is a global
technology leader in defense, government and commercial electronics, and
business and special mission aircraft.

     Contact:
     Tim Travis
     (316) 676-8674
     http://www.raytheonaircraft.com
SOURCE Raytheon Company