SEA LAUNCH AND BOEING STRENGTHEN TIES WITH BACKUP DEAL

Sea Launch and Boeing Expendable Launch Services have signed memorandum of understanding to offer backup services to customers using launchers of each company. Agreement will allow Boeing spinoffs to remain independent and “still compete” in marketplace, while providing “essential backup services” for Sea Launch Zenith 3SL and Delta 4 rockets, Boeing official said. “If we can accommodate any Sea Launch programs with a Delta vehicle, or vice versa, that’s the gist of it,” Boeing spokesman said. Boeing Delta 4 Vp Dave Schweikle said it also was matter of branding in marketplace. He said most people in satellite industry already think of Boeing and Sea Launch as “same company” so providing backup services wouldn’t be problem in branding efforts. Companies also said they would move toward “joint marketing effort.” Boeing owns 40% of Sea Launch, but Boeing spokesman said companies had separate operations: “We try to maintain the distinction in that respect… those are completely different operations.” Steps also are meant as way for companies to keep pace with rivals International Launch Services and Arianespace, which offer backup services to customers. Backup arrangements allow customers to switch launch vehicles if rocket designed to carry its payload is unable to fly.