Senator Jerry Moran Pushes Defense CEOs to Secure Kansas Jobs Amid Boeing Acquisition

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran is urging major defense companies to ensure continued work by Spirit AeroSystems as Boeing plans its acquisition of the Kansas supplier. He is focusing on securing defense-related jobs and preventing any supply chain disruptions, emphasizing the economic impact on Kansas.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran is urging the CEOs of major defense companies to ensure that work performed by Spirit AeroSystems is not disrupted by Boeing's planned acquisition of the Kansas-based supplier. Moran, a Kansas Republican and ranking member of the Senate Commerce aviation subcommittee, told Reuters he has engaged with CEOs of Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Airbus, General Atomics, and Textron to safeguard future defense work at the aerospace giant.

'I want to make certain that the work continues in Kansas,' Moran said, stressing the importance of maintaining the state's defense capabilities. Boeing aims to acquire most of Spirit as it grapples with a quality crisis, including a recent incident that has heightened legal and regulatory scrutiny.

Concerns over the blowout of a 737 MAX 9 door plug and its repercussions on airlines, suppliers, and passengers are particularly acute in Kansas, where aerospace significantly contributes to the economy. 'We have a lot of eggs in the Boeing basket,' Moran stated, noting that 2,000 Spirit employees focus on defense work.

Boeing Defense CEO Ted Colbert acknowledged the common practice of one major defense firm supplying parts to another. Moran remains vigilant, emphasizing the need to avoid more supply chain issues and ensure continuous work. He also mentioned potential long-term opportunities for other companies to take on defense contracts across various firms.

Moran is in contact with top U.S. defense officials, including the Air Force secretary and Pentagon acquisition chief, to address these concerns. Along with Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Moran is leading a delegation at the Farnborough Airshow to attract aerospace investments to their states. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly highlighted the state's significant aerospace industry, with 450 suppliers employing about 100,000 workers and generating $20 billion in annual output.

(With inputs from agencies.)