First NATO AWACS enters Boeing-led modernization program

• Modifications will extend the working life of NATO’s AWACS fleet, keeping these vital aircraft flying, ready and operationally relevant through 2035.
• The program is expected to deliver the modernized aircraft in the first quarter of 2027.

BRUNSSUM, April 11, 2022 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] has inducted the first NATO NE-3 Airborne Warning & Control System (AWACS) into the Final Lifetime Extension Program. A Boeing-led trans-Atlantic industry team will provide critical modifications to improve the system capability, interoperability and availability.

“We are committed to supporting NATO’s critical capabilities of surveillance, communication and battle management for control of any airspace through 2035 and beyond,” said Kim Stollar, Boeing managing director, EU & NATO Government Affairs. “The Final Lifetime Extension Program is a great example of our continued support of the Alliance’s smooth transition from the AWACS into the Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) capability.”

For the Final Lifetime Extension Program, Boeing has partnered with over 16 European leaders in the aviation sector to deliver these upgrades, including Leonardo (Italy), Indra (Spain), Airbus (Germany), Thales (Belgium), Jacobs (The Netherlands) and Kongsberg (Norway). Through the program, the NATO NE-3A will be equipped with leading technologies and capabilities to keep this vital aircraft flying, ready and operationally relevant through 2035. The Boeing-led program is expected to deliver the final modified and modernized aircraft in the first quarter of 2027.

“This upgrade program to NATO’s fleet of 14 AWACS aircraft will ensure NATO has the airborne early warning and control capability required to help defend NATO for years to come,” said Russell Howard, Boeing AWACS program director. “The AWACS has been integral in keeping our European allies safe from modern and evolving threats for more than 40 years. We look forward to supporting this vital capability for NATO through this modernization program.”

Boeing has a long and rich history of partnership with NATO through the Airborne Early Warning and Control Programme Management Organization (NAPMA), providing unparalleled airborne battle management, command and control to the Alliance for over 40 years.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. The company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future and living the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at www.boeing.com.

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Contact        

Colton Engelke
Boeing Communications
+1 425 229 0718
coltonbengelke@boeing.com

Boyan Novakov
Boeing Communications
+32 476 86 09 54
boyan.novakov@boeing.com