The Air Force plays a critical role in our nation’s defense. Perhaps best known for operating bombers and fighter jets, they also play a key role in supporting the joint force. The Air Force provides our nation with surveillance via satellites and unmanned aircraft and is solely responsible for providing aerial refueling for all fixed wing aircraft.  

With such broad responsibilities, the Air Force is working to stay on the cutting edge and look to partners and suppliers to offer the most innovative products at an affordable cost. At AFA, Boeing will feature its solution for the Air Force’s Next Generation Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS), its newest tanker, the KC-46A, and the Phantom Eye unmanned airborne system.  

The show also will spotlight legacy programs including the F-15 fighter, Minuteman missile guidance system and Wideband Global SATCOM satellite. During the Air Force Anniversary dinner on Sept. 17, Boeing will receive the 2014 John R. Alison Award for outstanding contributions by industrial leadership in national defense for the development of the C-17 Globemaster III.  

Boeing Defense, Space & Security CEO Chris Chadwick also will give a speech Sept. 17 about the evolving defense industrial base.