In the News: Sierra Nevada Wins U.S. Air Force Nightwatch Replacement Contract
AviationWeek.com, April 26, 2024 - The U.S. Air Force has awarded Sierra Nevada Corp. (SNC) a $13 billion contract for its Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC)—a contract that is by far the largest program for the privately held company.
SNC beat out traditional prime contractor Boeing for the program, which will replace the current E-4B Nightwatch fleet. The award is notable as SNC, whose traditional programs have been smaller aircraft modifications, will likely modify Boeing’s own 747-8i aircraft for the fleet.
The cost-plus-incentive fee contract, with a fixed-price-incentive-firm target, includes an initial award of $59 million. It covers the development and production of the SAOC Weapon System, including delivery of engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) aircraft, associated ground systems, production aircraft and interim customer support. Work is expected to be completed by July 2036.
