Textron establishes new business focused on live air training

By Marjorie Censer / July 18, 2016 at 2:37 PM

Textron has established a new business focused on live air training called Textron Airborne Solutions, which includes the recently acquired Airborne Tactical Advantage Company.

In a call with reporters this week, Russ Bartlett, chief executive of the new unit, said the company saw a growing need within the military to outsource types of training it used to handle itself.

The ATAC business, purchased earlier this year, is focused on training military pilots, ship crews and ground support forces in fighter tactics, carrier strike group defense and air-to-ground strike control, Textron said. The company in its announcement contended that outsourced services result in reduced wear and tear on combat aircraft as well as cost savings.

"It was clear to us that ATAC had created a market and had a formidable market position," Bartlett said. "Although this is step one, we do see continued opportunities, not only in the United States . . . but also around the world."

Bartlett said the new business would consider future acquisitions.

"Do we grow the capability or build it from within or do we acquire a turnkey operation?" Bartlett asked. "Both approaches are on the table."

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