USAF Awards Boeing $999 Million A-10 Thunderbolt II Re-Winging Contract

Boeing will re-wing the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft under a contract award from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) with a maximum ceiling value of $999 million.

The contract means that the nearly two decade old aircraft, known for their 30mm cannon and the ability to fly low and take off at high speed, will continue in USAF service for over a decade.

Boeing will be responsible for managing the production of a maximum of 112 wing sets and spare kits. The USAF ordered 27 wing sets immediately at contract award.

Pam Valdez, vice president of Air Force Services for Boeing Global Services said, "Our established supply base, experience with the A-10 structures, and our in-depth knowledge of the U.S. Air Force's requirements will help us deliver high-quality wings to meet the customer's critical need."

Boeing will team with Korean Aerospace Industries and other key suppliers to deliver the first wing sets to Hill Air Force Base in Ogden, Utah.

Under a previous contract, Boeing delivered 173 enhanced wing assemblies.

The A-10 Thunderbolt II is the USAF’s ground attack aircraft and has proved itself highly successful in the United States’ invasions in Iraq and Afghanistan. Aside of the ability to fly low, it can survive small arms fire which has made it the choice ground attack fighter in poorly-defended environs.