American Aerospace Technical Castings, Inc. (AATC) today announced it is joining forces with The Boeing Company in its bid to build the U.S. Air Force's new fleet of aerial refueling tankers.

As a key Arizona member of Boeing's United States Tanker Team, AATC will become eligible to increase orders if Boeing is awarded the U.S. Air Force tanker contract in 2010. AATC is an investment casting foundry based in Phoenix that produces thousands of high-quality aerospace parts in many alloys, both aluminum and steel for wide use in the military and commercial industries. 70 employees strong, their client base extends too many companies in the United States, Europe and the Mediterranean. AATC has manufactured castings for Boeing for more than 22 years.

"We look forward to supporting Boeing in its bid for the U.S. Air Force tanker contract and we value this unique opportunity to continue to support our valiant troops," said Patti Bredengerd, President, AATC, Inc. "AATC's work on the aerial refueling tanker contract will serve to strengthen our long-standing partnership with The Boeing Company, which has provided high-quality aerospace parts to its commercial and military aircraft and much-needed investment in our local economy."

Today's announcement provides the Arizona economy and our workers with a much-needed boost," said U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor (AZ). "This partnership between American Aerospace Technical Castings and Boeing is an example of two great companies working together to create jobs and promote economic growth in our state. All of us are so proud of the immeasurable contribution of these workers, who are supporting our men and women in uniform and keeping our country safe."

Boeing works with more than 575 companies in Arizona alone, paying more than $1.1 billion for services and products. If Boeing is awarded the contract, it would support at least 50,000 new and existing jobs across the United States.

Arizona's American Aerospace Technical Castings, Inc. is proud to help Boeing deliver an American-designed and built, combat-ready tanker featuring maximum capability at lowest cost.