Work Underway at Aerospace Testing Facility

Bechtel-led National Aerospace Solutions LLC has begun ground test operations of the Arnold Engineering Development Complex at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee and facilities in Maryland and California.

“We are excited to be part of the workforce and community in supporting the AEDC mission,” said Cynthia Rivera, general manager of NAS. “AEDC is a vital resource for ground test programs in both government and commercial sectors. Our vision is for NAS to be integral to the success of AEDC, the U.S. Air Force’s premier aerospace testing facilities, while applying the highest standards of ethics, innovation, safety, security, and quality to daily operations.”

NAS member companies include Bechtel National Inc., Sierra Lobo Inc., and GP Strategies Corporation. Chugach Federal Solutions Inc. and nLogic Inc. are teaming subcontractors.

The scope of work for the Test Operations & Sustainment contract includes operation of wind tunnels, rocket and turbine engine test cells, ballistic ranges, space chambers, and other specialized testing units; as well as technology development, equipment and facility sustainment, capital improvements to the sites and other services for the complex. AEDC has played a role in testing nearly all of the United States’ top priority aerospace programs, from fighter jets and missiles to Apollo rockets and weather satellites.

Bechtel-led National Aerospace Solutions LLC has begun ground test operations of the Arnold Engineering Development Complex.

The contract is for one year with up to seven one-year options or award terms and a value of up to approximately $1.5 billion. NAS and its teaming subcontractors employ more than 1,300 engineers, scientists, technicians, and other personnel. After the contract award was affirmed earlier this year, a 90-day transition period began on April 1 and ended June 30.