Boeing EA-18G Modification Moves to Next Phase
ST. LOUIS, Oct. 25, 2005 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] is installing the first radio frequency (RF) cables in the EA-1 aircraft as it continues production of the first two EA-18G flight test aircraft, EA-1 & EA-2.
RF cabling is essential in connecting the specialized avionics required to perform the airborne electronic attack mission of the EA-18G. When completed, each aircraft will have more than 2,500 feet of RF cabling, about five times the amount installed in the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, which shares a common airframe with the EA-18G.
"We're right on schedule with the modifications," says Bob Feldmann, EA-18G program manager for Boeing. "Every day, we move closer to our goal of flying this aircraft, and demonstrating its incredible capabilities for our Navy customer."
The cabling runs throughout the entire aircraft and takes special care to install. Cables range in length from 30 to 270 inches, requiring additional time for the installation process, according to Darryl Lyons, the supervisor in the St. Louis modification shop where the work is being completed.
To ensure quality, the cable is tripled-checked, initially by the supplier, then checked after forward fuselage installation, and finally at the aircraft level. Cable installation is one part of the modification of EA-1 and EA-2 scheduled for first flight in September and November 2006, respectively.
Boeing Integrated Defense Systems, a unit of The Boeing Company, is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $30.5 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; the world's largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense; NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in sustainment solutions and launch services.
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Contact Info:
Kathleen M. Cook
Boeing Naval Systems
office: (314) 233-6818
kathleen.m.cook@boeing.com
Patricia Frost
Boeing Naval Systems
office: (314) 234-6996
patricia.a.frost@boeing.com
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