Astrion and Fluor secure $3.7bn contract for aerospace testing with US air force

In a landmark announcement, Astrion, in a joint venture (JV) with Fluor Corporation, revealed that Beyond New Horizons, LLC (BNH), their collaborative effort, has been awarded the Test Operations and Sustainment (TOS) II contract by the U.S. Air Force. Valued at over $3.7 billion, this 12-year agreement signifies a pivotal advancement in aerospace testing and sustainment efforts, supporting the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC).

This monumental contract enables BNH, representing the strategic partnership between Astrion and Fluor, to conduct test operations, engage in technology development, manage equipment and facility sustainment, and implement capital improvements. These efforts are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the AEDC ground test mission, encompassing a broad spectrum of aerospace testing capabilities such as aerodynamic and propulsion wind tunnels, rocket and turbine engine test cells, space environmental chambers, arc heaters, ballistic ranges, and various specialized units.

Dave Zolet, CEO of Astrion, emphasized the significance of this contract in ushering a new era of aerospace testing characterized by innovation, efficiency, and commitment. Astrion’s role in supporting the Air Force’s next-generation readiness initiatives was highlighted as a critical factor in securing the contract.

BNH will carry out the contract’s stipulations across six AEDC operating locations, including Arnold Air Force Base in Tennessee, the National Full Scale Aerodynamics Complex in California, Tunnel 9 in Maryland, and various facilities at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio and the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.

Fog Hahn, Chief Growth Officer at Astrion, underlined the contract’s importance in cementing Astrion and Fluor’s status as leaders in mission testing, operations, and engineering. This contract not only ensures growth and innovation for AEDC but also extends the potential for further advancements in aerospace testing and sustainment operations.

This agreement builds on Astrion’s recent successes, including a $910 million contract to support the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command, underscoring the company’s commitment to providing innovative solutions for the nation’s defense and aerospace sectors.

The $3.7 billion TOS II contract awarded to the Astrion and Fluor joint venture marks a significant milestone in aerospace testing and defense technology. This partnership brings together two of the industry’s leading firms, combining their strengths to support the U.S. Air Force’s mission. The breadth of the AEDC’s testing capabilities, coupled with the extensive experience of Astrion and Fluor, sets a new standard for innovation and efficiency in aerospace testing. As the defense sector continues to evolve, such collaborations will be instrumental in shaping the future of national security and defense readiness.