Boeing will continue its ‘legacy of A-10 Thunderbolt II sustainment work’ after winning an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contract (with a maximum value of $999 million) from the US Air Force.

Boeing (www.boeing.com) will be responsible for managing the production of up to 112 wing sets and spare kits.

Boeing Global Service vice-president Pam Valdez said: “Boeing is honoured to be selected to continue as the A-10 Thunderbolt II wing kit contractor.

"Our established supply base, our experience with the A-10 structures, and our in-depth knowledge of the US Air Force’s requirements will help us deliver high-quality wings.”

Boeing will team up 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.

Meanwhile, China Airlines finalised its agreement with Boeing to order six 777 Freighters (valued at $2.1 billion at list prices), to modernise its cargo fleet.

The carrier, which currently operates one of the world’s largest 747 Freighter fleets, plans to “transition to
the largest and longest range twin-engine freighters in the industry”, as it launches operations from Taipei to North America.

The 777 Freighter can fly long-range trans-Pacific missions in excess of 6,000 nautical miles with 20% more payload than other large freighters like the 747-400F.

Capable of carrying a maximum payload of 102 tonnes, the new aircraft will allow China Airlines to make fewer stops and reduce the associated landing fees on these long-haul routes.

China Airlines, which marks its 60th anniversary this year, currently operates 51 Boeing airplanes.