First upgraded AWACS aircraft delivered to France
The first Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft to be upgraded by Boeing for the French Air Force has been delivered on schedule, the company announced on 22 July.
Boeing is upgrading four aircraft for the French military under the Mid-Life Upgrade programme, carrying out work to increase the fleet’s surveillance, communications and battle management capabilities. The improvements will provide the crew with more actionable information and better situational awareness and increase mission effectiveness and efficiencies.
Prior the delivery, the aircraft underwent ground and flight tests at Avord Air Force Base and qualification by France’s Direction Générale de l’Armement.
Yves Galland, president, Boeing France, said: ‘The French Mid-Life Upgrade programme is a model for enhancing intelligence and surveillance capability within the armed forces. This programme also demonstrates Boeing’s enduring commitment in providing the French Air Force with a superior air battle management capability.’
Modifications to the remaining three French AWACS aircraft are scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2016.
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