Boeing Reorganizes

Americas

• As expected, Boeing announced the details of its impending reorganization. A new group called BDS Development will take over management of six major programs, including the KC-46 tanker.

• The coming Air Force decision regarding the long-range strike bomber is thought to have implications Northrop Grumman’s survival as a military aviation manufacturer. The $900 million per bomber program – to number 100 units – is likely the last such program in a generation. If Northrop fails to win it, analysts are speculating that its military aviation division might be sold off to a remaining aviation prime – were the DoD and Department of Justice to allow it.

• Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work visited strategic nuclear forces in Minot to ground truth reports that much progress has been made in the troubled force.

• The Government Accountability Office released a report (PDF) – part of a series of reports on the elements of the federal government experiencing the highest risk of failure – and judged the Department of Defense to be somewhat improved in their slow move toward transforming its business practices. The biggest criticism remains an assessment that the DoD isn’t seriously communicating its reform intent; measuring progress; and making people feel that their perceived performance is based on progress on business transformation.

Europe

• Russia’s Deputy Defense Minister claims that his country will soon produce an attack/reconnaissance drone. Previous reports had spoken of a Chirok drone made by Russian United Instrument Corporation, a division of Rostec Corporation.

Asia

• A Rand report (PDF) indicates China’s primary military weaknesses are still weaknesses, despite much hand wringing inspired by the many advancements achieved in the past couple of decades.

• Australia will not allow Russia or North Korea to compete for its submarine competition to replace the Collins-class boats.

Today’s Video

• Lockheed released this video showing off its LRASM anti-ship missile capabilities, now in the news again after a test launch.