TECT Aerospace, Inc., headquartered in Wichita, KS, today announced its partnership with Boeing on a major bid to build the next generation of aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force.

By joining Boeing and many other leading suppliers and companies from the state of Kansas on the United States Tanker Team, TECT Aerospace will become eligible to increase orders if Boeing is awarded the U. S. Air Force tanker contract in 2010. With manufacturing operations in Kansas and Washington State, TECT Aerospace manufactures structural and mechanical airframe-ready components and assemblies for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft.

"We greatly value the continued commitment demonstrated by Boeing to Wichita's aerospace manufacturing industry and proudly accept the invitation be part of the team that will build the next generation of aerial refueling tankers for the U.S. Air Force," said Timothy Hassenger, President, TECT Aerospace, Inc. "Supporting our troops with high-quality, mission appropriate equipment and creating jobs in the U.S. Aerospace manufacturing sector are two main incentives to participate in this important defense program."

Boeing works with more than 460 companies in the state of Kansas, resulting in an estimated $3 billion in annual economic impact and supporting an estimated 125,000 direct and indirect Kansas jobs. If Boeing is awarded the contract, it would support approximately 50,000 total jobs and 800 suppliers across the United States.

TECT Aerospace is a major supplier of structural components and assemblies for the Boeing 767 aircraft, including floor grid assemblies, wing stringers, and complex mechanical flight control assemblies. TECT Aerospace's sister company, TECT Power, is also a major supplier of flight critical rotating and stationary components for the various power plant options available on the B767.

TECT Aerospace joins a growing list of well-respected and experienced Kansas-based suppliers that are proud to help Boeing deliver an American-designed and -built, combat-ready tanker featuring max capability at the lowest cost.