Wichita State University and its National Institute for Aviation Research have announced a strategic partnership with a national security company under a program for the U.S. Air Force.

The partnership is with SNC, a global aerospace and national security firm, and the partnership is part of a contract for the Air Force’s Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC).   Under the program, one of two 747-8i aircraft has recently arrived in Wichita from SNC’s Aviation Innovation and Technology Center (AITC) in Dayton, Ohio.

SNC will modernize and deliver a replacement for the current fleet of E-4B “Nightwatch” aircraft, which entered service in 1974. This highly specialized aircraft serves as an airborne command center for the president of the United States, secretary of defense, and chairs of the joint chiefs of staff to ensure continued critical command, control and communication during national emergencies.  NIAR’s experience in composites and advanced materials, digital twin, advanced manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing, aircraft and component testing, and certification will enhance SNC’s ability to deliver a cutting-edge, innovative solution to the USAF.

Kansas Senator Jerry Moran joined WSU officials for the announcement on Monday. He said, “The partnership between NIAR and SNC will modernize and replace outdated aircraft that are vital to the operations of the United States Air Force.”