LAYTON -- When Boeing makes an announcement that several hundred aircraft have been ordered, especially by the government, it can have a big local impact.

Such is the case with a recent announcement that 242 wing sets have been ordered for the A-10 fleet. That translates into a contract worth up to $2 billion between 2007 and 2018, a company press release says.

The contract covers engineering services and the manufacturing of the wing sets.

"Boeing has been a great business in our community. We're very excited for this. It will provide the types of jobs we're looking for," says Ben Hart, Layton City economic development coordinator.

"These will be good jobs, life-sustaining. The bid and contract are for a set period of time. This is a very strong component of why we're so excited. It will really provide more support from the local community to Hill AFB," he said.

The A-10 wing replacement program calls for the replacement wing sets to be delivered in parts and kits for easy installation.

"This contract extends the life of a valuable platform that supports our war fighters in accomplishing their mission to defend freedom around the globe," said Charles T. Robertson, vice president of Boeing Support Systems' maintenance, modifications and upgrades division.

The A-10 Thunderbolt II, which was introduced in 1976, is a twin-engine jet aircraft designed for close-air support of ground forces. Called a simple, effective and survivable single-seat aircraft, it can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles.

Economic impact is estimated at $136 million to the area's economy. Company officials say at least 60 more jobs and a local supplier base will be required.

"The Boeing A-10 program office would move from St. Louis to Layton during the basic production process of the program in 2010," said Curt Nothstine, director for Aircraft Sustainment and Modernization, a press release early this year indicated.

"We will partner with the 309th Maintenance Wing at the Ogden Air Logistics Center at HAFB and provide the skilled expertise and engineering know-how that will address the needs of the A-10 program with a low-risk, low-cost solution," said Nothstine.

"Using advanced lean manufacturing technologies, we will be able to provide a solution and assembly kit that will allow A-10s to fly at least 20 more years."

Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. It is headquartered in St. Louis and is valued at $30.8 billion.

It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; is the world's largest military aircraft and satellite manufacturer, and is also NASA's largest contractor.



tbusselberg@davisclipper.com