Boeing on June 26 received a $1.8 billion foreign military sales contract from the Air Force to supply 68 kits to convert Saudi Arabian F-15 fighters to the new advanced F-15SA configuration, announced the Pentagon in its daily list of major contracts. The contract also covers associated equipment and services. This work is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2013, according to the Defense Department. This modernization of the existing Saudi F-15 force is part of a broader $29.4 billion FMS package, under which the Saudis also will acquire 84 new-build F-15SA aircraft from Boeing. (See also Robins has Big Role in Saudi F-15 Work.)
The Air Force's Rapid Capabilities Office will serve as the program executive office for the Advanced Battle Management System, which looks to connect sensors and shooters in real-time. The move means the Air Force is ready to move toward buying systems and proving that its ABMS strategy is working, said…