Improved export and U.S. orders, the T-X competition and a bridge to future fighter aircraft programs have put the Boeing unit in a better position.

The drumbeat for a new Boeing midsize jetliner is growing louder. But beyond the idea of a new aircraft, things get complicated. The 797’s twin-aisle configuration is the big issue.

For the Lockheed/Korea Aerospace Industries team, the advantage is in not having to bury any serious development costs in the bid price.