Hamilton Sundstrand joins the Boeing KC-46 Tanker Team

Boeing has selected Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation as a supplier to the Boeing KC-46 aerial refueling tanker. Hamilton Sundstrand is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

Hamilton Sundstrand will supply the KC-46's environmental control system, electric power generation system, emergency ram air turbine system, fans and engine bleed air system, engine controls and accessories, bleed air leak detection system, and the engine/auxiliary power unit fire detection and overheat detection system.

The KC-46 multi-mission tanker is based on the Boeing 767 commercial transport. Hamilton Sundstrand's hardware is identical to, or largely based on, the systems that the company supplies to the Boeing 767-400. Software modifications will be necessary in certain systems to accommodate the needs of the KC-46 and its multi-role air refueling mission.

"We are proud to join Boeing's nationwide team in support of the U.S. Air Force's advanced tanker," said Hamilton Sundstrand President Alain M. Bellemare. "As a long-term supplier to the Boeing 767 commercial airplane, Hamilton Sundstrand provides a low-risk solution for Boeing and cost-effective value for U.S. taxpayers."

Boeing will provide the Air Mobility Command an inventory of 179 KC-46 tankers. Initial flight is scheduled for 2014, with delivery of the first 18 aircraft projected to occur by 2017.