649th Aeronautical Systems Squadron to move to Aberdeen

Battelle Memorial Institute has won a three-year, $32 million contract to assist an Air Force squadron that is relocating to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md., as part of the continuing consolidation of U.S. military bases.

Under the contract, Battelle will provide advisory and consulting services to the 649th Aeronautical Systems Squadron, which is moving from Brooks City-Base in San Antonio to Aberdeen Proving Ground, company officials said April 21. While the transfer is under way, the command will maintain operations at both sites.

The 649th manages the Air Force’s chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense program.

Battelle will conduct analyses of materiel systems managed by the squadron and recommend ways to ensure that it maintains the latest equipment necessary to carry out its mission, the officials said. The company will also make recommendations related to specific program capabilities.