Breaking News - Networking:
Boeing, IBM Strategic Alliance Boosts Net-Centric Technology
Boeing and IBM announced a strategic alliance today in New York City to
address an estimated $200 billion market for ground and space-based systems to
enhance the nation's military communications, intelligence operations and
homeland security.
The agreement brings together the nation's second largest defense contractor
and leader in network-centric operations with the nation's leader in
information technology and open-standards-based commercial software.
Through a 10-year alliance, the companies will develop advanced digital
communications and information technologies for current and future Department
of Defense and intelligence systems. These technologies will be critical for
network-centric operations where satellites, aircraft, ships and submarines --
as well as tanks, radios and even handheld computers -- share information
using the same interfaces, standards or protocols.
"The conflicts of the future will be less dependent upon who has the most
physical assets such as ships, planes and tanks, but determined by who has the
best information and the most efficient means of sharing it among all elements
of the fighting forces," said Jim Albaugh, president and CEO of Boeing
Integrated Defense Systems. "The Boeing and IBM team will deliver the finest
digital information technology industry has to offer. With capabilities
enhanced by this new technology our defense and intelligence community will
gather real-time information and communicate it across all levels of command
for maximum effect."
Boeing brings to the alliance its long history of success as a major military
and intelligence platform provider, coupled with its broad experience as a
lead systems integrator. IBM will provide Boeing with information management
middleware, design elements for electronic systems products and will integrate
complex, leading-edge technology into a variety of networking and computing
systems being developed for the DoD and other government agencies.
Additionally, IBM will provide microprocessor technology, electronics design
tools, software and chip verification technology. The expertise IBM offers
will enhance Boeing's role as a leader in providing government customers with
network-centric operations.
"Our engineering and business consulting services have helped hundreds of
commercial accounts literally transform to efficient, modern, integrated IT
infrastructure. With this alliance, we will work with Boeing to help agencies
such as the DoD do exactly the same thing," said John E. Kelly III, IBM senior
vice president.
Kelly said IBM will provide Boeing with access to off-the-shelf technology,
leading-edge computing products, skills for chip designs, knowledge management
and infrastructure integration skills, plus a variety of embedded software,
middleware and business software applications.
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