Leonardo to upgrade first NATO E-3A test aircraft Primary tabs 21st May 2021 Leonardo has been selected to perform the Final Lifetime Extension Programme (FLEP) upgrade to the first of NATO’s E-3A Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) test aircraft, with the wider fleet expected to remain operational under 2035. Contracted by Boeing, which is acting as prime contractor for NAPMA (NATO AEWC Program Management Agency), Leonardo will perform installation of checkout of newly-developed hardware under the FLEP programme on the first aircraft, with work expected to be completed in 2023. Leonardo will then provide also support during the final test phase at the Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base.