EVENDALE, Ohio - The industry-leading CF6-80C2 was launched into service on a new military application today with the delivery of two new -80C2-powered Boeing 767 AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) aircraft to the Japan Defense Agency (JDA). The JDA launched the 767 AWACS program with an order for four of the advanced aircraft; the two remaining airplanes are scheduled for delivery in 1999.

The new 767 AWACS is the first tactical application for the CF6-80C2, designated the F103-GE-102 for military service. The F103-GE-102 also is the powerplant for Air Force One, a Boeing 747-400 which serves as the private aircraft of the President of the United States. The two aircraft in service have logged more than 20,000 flight hours.

The 767 AWACS fills the need for both airborne surveillance and command and control functions for tactical and air defense forces. The F103-GE-102 supports this mission by providing longer range and time-on-station versus older E-3 AWACS currently in service. In addition, the engine generates ample electrical power for the surveillance and communications equipment necessary to fulfill the AWACS mission, providing countries the state-of-the-art in electronic warfare. The F103-GE-102 has also been selected by the U.S. Air Force to power the new B747-based Airborne Laser aircraft system.

"The 767 AWACS program is an excellent example of the success of the Working Together Teams we have forged with Boeing," said Parviz Heydari, manager of Military Programs for Boeing Applications for GE Aircraft Engines "This team worked as a solid unit through the development of the necessary engine and aircraft modifications, as well as in resolving the technical and business issues we faced. The end result is a smooth introduction into service of one of the most advanced aircraft systems ever developed."

In commercial service since 1985, the CF6-80C2 has logged more than 40 million flight hours as the most reliable engine on wide-body aircraft. The engine has a 99.95 dispatch reliability rate, an in-flight shutdown rate of .004, and a shop visit rate of 0.100. In addition to the -80C2, the CF6-50 (F103-GE-100/101) is in operational military service aboard the U.S. Air Force KC-10 cargo/tanker and E-4B Command Post (B747) aircraft.