News reports point to problems for Boeing over its development of the next generation spy satellite. The National Reconnaissance Office may greatly reduce Boeing’s work on the multi-billion dollar Future Imagery Architecture satellite program, transferring work to Lockheed Martin, according to “sources” talking to the Los Angeles Times and “officials” talking to the Wall Street Journal. The program has been beset by cost overruns and delays.
While the Pentagon has signaled its intent to scale technology, field new systems faster, and work more with nontraditional vendors, a new report identifies persistent manufacturing capacity, resourcing, workforce, and modernization challenges that could hinder its ability to deliver on those goals.