PARIS, Feb. 19 (UPI) -- Mid-life upgrade modifications to an E-3F airborne warning and control system aircraft of the French air force have been completed, Boeing announced.
The upgrade was performed by Boeing and Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance as part of a four-aircraft upgrade under a 2010 foreign military sales deal between the United States and France's military procurement agency.
"The success of this upgrade rests in the outstanding cooperation between Boeing and Air France Industries," said Yves Galland, president of Boeing France. "We are looking forward to continue this successful partnership to meet the French air force's military needs."
Boeing said the upgrade of the aircraft was the largest modernization effort, and involved electrical, mechanical and structural systems and mission hardware.
The upgrade, modeled on the Block 40/45 contract developed for the U.S. AWACS fleet, began in June of last year. The first completed aircraft will now undergo ground and flight tests before being delivered to the French air force later this year.
"The mid-life upgrade capability of this airborne surveillance, command and control platform is unrivaled," said Steve Swanz, Boeing's French AWACS program manager. "The excellent relationship of the French government, U.S. government and Boeing French AWACS teams has enabled completion of this modification milestone and the outstanding performance by AFI KLM E&M and our Boeing in-country team exemplifies our commitment to excellence in product and relationships."
