NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) Jan. 14, 2000--Standard&Poor's today affirmed its ratings on Boeing Co. and related entities (see list below) following the company's announcement that it will acquire Hughes Electronics Corp.'s space and communications businesses and related operations, including the leading position in satellite manufacturing, for $3.75 billion in cash. The outlook remains stable. The acquisition, although costly, improves Boeing's business diversity and competitive position, and can be funded without incurring additional debt. The combination of the Hughes businesses (1999 revenues about $2.3 billion) with Boeing's existing space and communications operations will create a $10 billion segment with full systems capabilities. With enhanced growth prospects and opportunities for cost synergies, Boeing will be better positioned in
