Boeing on July 17 delivered on schedule the first of four upgraded French Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. The upgraded aircraft will increase the fleet’s surveillance, communications and battle management capabilities.

The Mid-Life Upgrade – the largest set of modifications to AWACS aircraft for France – will provide the crew with more actionable information and better situational awareness and increase mission effectiveness and efficiencies.

“The focus, commitment and hard work among Boeing, Air France Industries and French and U.S. government teams were key in achieving this milestone on schedule,” said Steve Swanz, French AWACS program manager for Boeing.

Delivery followed ground and flight tests at Avord Air Force Base and qualification by France’s Direction Générale de l’Armement.

“The French Mid-Life Upgrade program is a model for enhancing intelligence and surveillance capability within the armed forces. This program also demonstrates Boeing’s enduring commitment in providing the French Air Force with a superior air battle management capability,” said Yves Galland, president of Boeing France.

Modifications to the other three French AWACS aircraft are scheduled for completion by the third quarter of 2016.

Boeing, as prime contractor, provides hardware, software, engineering and quality assurance support. Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance, a Boeing subcontractor on the project, is upgrading the electrical, mechanical and structural systems and mission hardware on the aircraft.

Boeing press release