Boeing creates unit for SBI work

For the second time in four months, Boeing Co. today reshuffled its management units and created a new component that will oversee the Homeland Security Department's $30 billion high-tech Secure Border Initiative Network (SBInet) surveillance system.

Daniel Korte will remain as Boeing's program manager for SBInet, but he will now report to the new Intelligence and Security Systems unit. Boeing picked Steve Oswald, a former astronaut and retired Naval Reserve rear admiral, to serve as vice president and general manager of the unit.

The new intelligence unit is part of Boeing's Network and Space Systems, led by Roger Krone. Previously, SBInet project managers reported directly to Krone.

This allows for better customer service, Boeing spokesman Joseph Tedino said.

Boeing, based in Chicago, is completing final tests on the first 28-mile section of the SBInet surveillance system along the Arizona-Mexico border.

DHS announced Dec. 7 it was conditionally accepting the first section, known as Project 28, and would make a final acceptance if operational testing was satisfactory. The tests will take 45 days to complete.

Boeing won the contract in September 2006. The company's challenge is to design and build a system of cameras, radar, sensors, towers and communication links, anticipated to cost $8 billion to $30 billion. This "virtual fence" is to run along sections of the U.S. borders with Mexico and Canada, supplemented by physical fencing and vehicle barriers.

The new intelligence unit is one of six that reports to Network and Space Systems. The intelligence and security division has about 2,000 employees in nine locations, and will be headquartered in the Washington area. It has four program areas: Security Solutions, which includes SBInet; Advanced Information Systems, Advanced Intelligence and Security Solutions; and Mission Systems.