NASA has made headlines this week confirming that Scott Tingle, who spent 166 days aboard the International Space Station in 2018, will serve as its new chief astronaut. NASA selected Tingle not only for his experience but also because he is set to command the first operational flight of Boeing's Starliner, making him a central figure in Boeing’s space program going forward. This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for Starliner, as NASA prepares to finally transition the capsule from a series of test missions to its critical role as a crew transporter for the International Space Station.
Listeners following Boeing's journey know its Starliner capsule has faced numerous delays over the years. NASA previously announced in late 2024 that Starliner’s return crewed mission was pushed back to no earlier than March 2025 due to lingering technical and readiness issues. According to several mission planners, these setbacks were tied to system upgrades and thorough safety reviews after test flights revealed problems with software and propulsion. As of now, NASA and Boeing have not released any fresh Starliner launch dates, and Starliner itself has remained grounded over the last few days. But with Tingle now officially at the helm of NASA’s astronaut office, the focus shifts to final preparations and renewed confidence that a crewed Starliner flight will happen soon.
Beyond Starliner, Boeing’s broader space operations have seen encouraging developments. On November 14, Boeing built and launched a second ViaSat-3 satellite from Cape Canaveral—using its advanced 702MP+ platform. This success underscores Boeing’s ongoing commitment to satellite technology and supplying global operators with high-capacity communications coverage.
Boeing’s defense operations are also making global news, especially at the Dubai Air Show. Army Recognition reports that Boeing has just announced a major industrial expansion to triple production of its Patriot PAC-3 missile seekers. The global demand—driven by European rearmament and support for Ukraine—has prompted Boeing to open a 40,000 square foot facility dedicated to producing the critical Ka-band radar seekers. These highly sophisticated components are essential for the PAC-3’s ‘hit-to-kill’ capability, placing Boeing at the forefront of next-generation missile defense and securing its standing with NATO and allied militaries. The announcement came alongside news that Boeing secured a recent contract package for roughly $2.7 billion tied to PAC-3 production, which will help stabilize supply chains and ensure readiness across the alliance.
Outside of space, Boeing secured significant commercial wins as well, including Flydubai’s new order for 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The deal helps modernize Flydubai’s fleet and reflects confidence in Boeing’s reliability and delivery rates. Boeing’s expanding partnerships and product lines—from jet trainers to satellite service and defense contracts—show a company pushing ahead on many fronts even as it works through legacy issues.
Listeners, the past week has shown that while Boeing Starliner’s launch is still pending, momentum is gathering both at NASA and across Boeing’s aerospace and defense businesses. The selection of Scott Tingle as NASA’s new chief astronaut signals clear intent to move Starliner forward, and Boeing’s industrial advances—whether in missile seekers or commercial aircraft—highlight the company’s wide-reaching impact. Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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