While the focus was on having a good time, the president of the company had something to say about the possibility of another aeronautics business operating in the same town. Presented as a united front, Governor Rick Perry, Congresswoman Kay Granger and Lockheed's president Dain Hancock had only positive thoughts about the potential of welcoming Boeing to the North Texas area. The North Texas area has long been the center of aviation.
Quality of life is at the top of the list.
One of the things that will be very attractive to Boeing is the synergy here. We have Lockheed Martin, we have Bell Helicopter Textron, and so recruiting is good. Location is not the only thing Boeing and Lockheed may have in common. Right now, both are involved in a heated competition to win a U.S. government multibillion-dollar contract that will secure production for 30 to 40 years. The winner will build what is expected to be the premier military aircraft, the Joint Strike Fighter.