Sonic Industries, Inc., a member of the Sargent Aerospace & Defense company, is proud to announce that it has been chosen by The Boeing Company as a member of its nationwide team competing for the U.S. Air Force's new fleet of aerial refueling tankers.

By joining with Boeing to become part of the United States Tanker team, Sonic Industries will become eligible to increase orders if Boeing is awarded the U.S. Air Force tanker contract in mid-2010. Sonic Industries currently makes specialty, high-strength fasteners for all Boeing's Commercial Aircraft platforms, including its new flagship, the 787 Dreamliner.

"Sonic Industries' selection as a potential aerial tanker supplier demonstrates our trusted relationship with Boeing and our unwavering commitment to serve them and our nation's warfighters," said Ed Elsner, Vice President, Sonic Industries. "Sargent has been supplying specialty fasteners, self-lubricated lined bearings, and hydraulic controls to Boeing for more than 30 years on both commercial and military platforms. The Boeing tanker bid will certainly allow us to create additional business opportunities to help support our 700+ workers, their families and our community," he added.

Boeing works with over 5,800 companies in California alone, paying more than $6.3 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.

Sargent is proud to help Boeing deliver an American-designed and built, combat-ready tanker featuring maximum capability at lowest cost.