The August issue of the Gulf Coast Aerospace Corridor Newsletter will publish next week. The cover story focuses on the expected battle between Airbus and Boeing to build the KC-Y aerial tanker. Boeing will offer a modified version of its current KC-46, while Airbus will offer the A330 MRRT.
A lot has happened since the first battle between the two giants to build the replacement for the KC-135. When the contract was awarded to Boeing in 2011, Mobile had no aircraft assembly lines. Now the Alabama city is home to two - one for the A320 and one for the A220.
Importantly, the KC-Y is called the "bridge tanker" because it is the transitional tanker between the current one and a future tanker, which may end up being autonomous.
We also have a story about an electronics manufacturer in Holt, west of Crestview. Certified Manufacturing Inc., got its start in 1998, and has grown over the years focusing on high-end electronics products for the Department of Defense, NASA and aerospace companies. It's the type of home-grown company that economic development officials love.
Finally, we take a look at some of the key stories that developed in the region since the last newsletter in June, including the new training helicopter that was delivered to Naval Air Station Whiting Field, Fla., the latest engine test at Stennis Space Center, Miss., and developments designed to create a business park at Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans.
The newsletter will be sent to the inbox of subscribers Tuesday. Non-subscribers can read a copy at our website.
PERSPECTIVES: Commentary and analysis on aerospace and defense activities in the Gulf Coast
