Boeing plans to recast its Integrated Defense Systems business operation to focus on—wait for it—weapons capabilities rather than systems for military services or government agencies. It will drop from seven major business groups to three. The expected result: “reduced costs across the markets [Boeing] serves,” says Jim Albaugh, IDS president and CEO. The three capability areas are: Precision Engagement and Mobility Systems; Networks and Space Systems; and Support Systems.
The United States Air Force is flying less than historic norms and funding for acquisition and readiness is on a path to further hollow out this too small and old force to that is incapable of sustaining an enduring combat air campaign.
