Last year, language originally contained in HR 2810, the National Defense Authorization Bill for 2018, pushed a sole-source contract to another company, regardless of its bid, at the taxpayer’s expense. Boyle’s amendment removed the sole-source language to instead use a fair, competitive, and open process. As a result of that process, Boeing-Leonardo was awarded the contract. This has proved fruitful for a major manufacturer in the Northeast.
“The Air Force’s announcement is excellent news for the city of Philadelphia, specifically Northeast Philadelphia, and the United States Air Force,” said Rep. Boyle. “These are 500 jobs that now will be right here in our area. This is a great day for Philadelphia’s hard-working and talented workers.”Boeing’s MH-139 helicopter derives from the Leonardo AW139 helicopter, which will be assembled at its Northeast Philadelphia plant, with Boeing integrating military-specific components at its facility south of the city. The UH-1N replacement program is a priority for the Air Force and many members of Congress, House and Senate. The Air Force UH-1N Huey primarily accomplishes two vital national-security missions, nuclear missile security and Continuity of Government, and supports five homeland-security missions.
Boyle is a member of the House Foreign Affairs and House Budget Committees.