ENDICOTT, N.Y., May 8 (UPI) -- A unit that controls the refueling boom on aerial tankers will be developed and made by BAE Systems for Boeing's KC-46A, destined for the U.S. Air Force.
The value of the award for the actuator control unit was not disclosed. The first flight of the tanker, however, is scheduled to occur in 2014.
"With this award, BAE Systems' role in the KC-46A tanker contract has expanded, reflecting the teamwork, dedication and innovation we bring to our partnership with the Boeing Company," said Jim Garceau, deputy general manager of BAE Systems Communications and Control Solutions.
BAE was picked by Boeing last year to supply the aircraft's interior control panel for functions such as lighting, potable water and waste tanks.
The actuator control unit allows for the movement of the aerial refueling boom. They are operated by the crew using a boom flight control stick.
The KC-46A is replacing the Air Force's aging fleet of KC-135 aircraft.
