Boeing submits bid to Air Force for freighter aircraft

SEATTLE, June 7, 1995 -- Boeing Defense & Space Group has determined that its 747-400F Freighter, equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW 4056 engines, will be the Boeing candidate for a proposed new Air Force Non-Developmental Airlift Aircraft (NDAA).

A Military Airplanes Division team recently submitted the first installment of its proposal to the U.S. Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

The Mobility Analysis Support System (MASS) and Past Performance volumes were delivered to the Materiel Command May 31. The Technical, Contractor Logistics Support, Cost and Contracts volumes will be submitted June 30.

The Boeing proposal recommends the 747-400F Freighter be used as a complement to the Air Force's existing C-17 airlifter. The NDAA program office has been gathering information with the help of industry since last year for ways to fill the shortfall in its airlift capacity. The NDAA program has been designated a pilot program under the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 (FASA) to facilitate the use of commercial practices.

Mike Janke, Commercial Derivatives contract manager said two contracts are anticipated. The aircraft will be procured by the Materiel Command, and the Air Force's Oklahoma City Air Logistics Command will be responsible for freighter aircraft support.

Other aircraft manufacturers are expected to take part in the competitive procurement. The government has said a decision on its airlift requirement will be made in late Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 (FASA) to facilitate the use of commercial practices.