GILZE-RIJEN AIR BASE, Netherlands, June 23, 2014 – Boeing [NYSE: BA] has signed separate agreements with the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) and Fokker Technologies to explore advanced maintenance opportunities for Dutch rotorcraft and expand efforts to make the Netherlands a regional hub for military and civilian aircraft support services.

Boeing and the RNLAF signed a strategic partnership agreement that builds on an existing support contract for Dutch AH-64 Apache and CH-47 Chinook helicopters to identify new areas of long-term cooperation.

Opportunities under consideration include adding components to the existing contract; engaging Dutch suppliers for maintenance, repair and overhaul work; and expanding use of the Logistics Center Woensdrecht, the Ministry of Defence’s center of expertise for military MRO and logistics.

“This agreement with Boeing supports my objective to increase the availability of my Apache and Chinook fleets and reduce the costs to operate them,” said Lieutenant General Alexander Schnitger, commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force. “This innovative way of cooperation with Boeing is a blueprint for future cooperation between the Royal Netherlands Air Force and other original equipment manufacturers.”

“Today’s signing continues our successful innovative partnership that delivers top quality and affordable support to the Royal Netherlands Air Force, increasing performance and readiness,” said Tim Sassenrath, Boeing Global Services & Support vice president of Rotorcraft Support.

Boeing and Fokker Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding to help advance the goals outlined in the agreement with the RNLAF. It enables the companies to explore collaboration on maintenance, repair and overhaul in the Netherlands for Dutch rotorcraft and other customers.

“The selection of Fokker clearly reflects the confidence that Boeing has in our company and in our dedicated, specialized employees. This program offers great potential for the future and seamlessly fits our strategic goals,” said Hans Büthker, CEO, Fokker Technologies. “We are delighted with this opportunity. It is an honor to be part of this team, working together with Boeing and the RNLAF.”

The agreement builds on Boeing and Fokker’s long-term collaboration on supply chain and sales activities in the Netherlands and around the world. As a supplier to Boeing, Fokker provides various metal and composite structures for the Apache and Chinook, as well as the Apache’s landing gear and wiring for both military and commercial aircraft.

Through these agreements, Boeing continues to support the Netherlands Maintenance Valley Initiative, an effort by the Dutch government to bolster the country’s position as a regional hub for MRO activities. Boeing also has supported the World Class Aviation Academy and Rotary Wing Training Center, providing customers in the region with military maintenance training on fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.

Source: Boeing
Photo: Rob Vogelaar Z.A.P.P.