Boeing has won two contracts for its Wichita-based development and modification center, valued at a combined $126 million. One contract is for $81 million of work on the presidential fleet of two modified Boeing 747-200Bs—designated VC-25As by the Air Force and given the call sign “Air Force One” when transporting the President. The other work is for a $45 million remanufacturing effort on the engine struts of KC-135E tankers. The contract stipulates that 72 engine struts are required by March 2008.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.