Boeing looking to sell space business: report
- Boeing is considering selling portions of its space business, including the Starliner vehicle and support operations for the International Space Station.
- The decision comes amid development challenges faced by the Starliner program, which has recently experienced delays and technical issues.
- This potential divestment reflects Boeing's strategy to streamline operations and shift focus towards fewer core programs.
Boeing, a leading aerospace manufacturer in the United States, is reportedly looking to divest several segments of its space business as it considers ways to streamline its operations. According to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, the company is focusing on selling assets related to its Starliner space vehicle, which has faced numerous technical challenges and development delays. The Starliner program has incurred over $1.8 billion in cost overruns, prompting Boeing to review its strategic direction regarding the NASA business it supports. This potential sale would not include the Boeing unit responsible for the Space Launch System, nor its commercial and satellite businesses. The implications of this decision may reflect a necessary response to the technical hurdles and operational risks associated with the Starliner, which had difficulties during critical missions, including issues that required NASA astronauts to return to Earth via a competitor's spacecraft. Moreover, Boeing's ongoing operational challenges are compounded by a significant strike affecting production of its 737 Max, 767, and 777 airliner models. The company's new CEO has stated that a reduction in the number of operational programs might be beneficial to maintain quality and efficiency. These developments underscore a pivotal moment for the company, as it navigates significant changes in the aerospace industry toward a more streamlined and focused business model.