FAIRFIELD, NJ AND FORT WORTH, TX, Sep. 8, 2016 –- WHI Global, LLC (“WHI”) is pleased to announce that two of its subsidiaries have been awarded a contract by the Defense Logistics Agency (“DLA”) and Hill Air Force Base (“Hill AFB”) to manufacture a significant landing gear assembly for the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress.
In its sixth decade of operational service, the B-52 provides the United States with immediate nuclear and conventional global strike capability. The B-52 is the most combat capable bomber in the U.S. inventory due to its high mission-capable rate, long range, persistence and ability to employ accurate standoff weapons and Joint Direct Attack Munitions.
The B-52 presents constant challenges for parts, material and assemblies driven by diminishing original manufacturing sources. To support refurbishment and upgrade programs for the B-52, the DLA is tasked to find capable vendors who are able to make short run quantities for requirements of highly complex components and assemblies.
WHI subsidiaries Crow Precision Components, LLC and Arlington Precision Components, LLC were approached by the DLA and Hill AFB to assist with the manufacturing of Drag Link Assemblies, a major structural component of the landing gear on the B-52 and a highly complex assembly that necessitates a manufacturing partner with specialized capabilities and expertise.
The manufacturing process for the Drag Link Assemblies requires extensive planning and coordination between WHI’s forging, machining and assembly operations to ensure desired results. WHI and its subsidiaries developed and secured process validation for the source approval within weeks, and immediately following contract award, transitioned into rapid production in an effort to fulfill this critical United States Air Force / Global Strike Command requirement.
WHI takes pride in responding to the United States Armed Forces’ needs whenever called upon. The B-52 will continue to be a major contributor to the U.S. and allied forces with its most recent service life extension through 2044. WHI is pleased to support the DLA and Hill AFB in ensuring the B-52 supply chain keeps them flying well into the future.
About WHI
WHI is a vertically integrated manufacturer of precision metal components and complex assemblies for the aerospace, defense and industrial markets. With industry-leading closed-die forging, 3-, 4- and 5-axis CNC machining, assembly and NADCAP heat treating, testing and inspection capabilities, WHI serves a global customer base. WHI’s operating history dates back to 1951 with over 200,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing footprint that includes three ITAR registered facilities carrying AS9100C & ISO 9001 certifications. For more information, please visit www.whiglobal.com.