TUCSON, Ariz., Nov. 7, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of southern Arizona students and teachers set a new world record by simultaneously launching more than 1,800 rubber band-powered paper airplanes at the Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN)-sponsored Math, Science and Technology Funfest.

During the 6th annual Funfest, more than 6,000 students participated in a variety of events focusing on math, science and technology.

"Raytheon is committed to fostering student interest in math and science," said Bob Lepore, Raytheon Missile Systems vice president of Engineering. "The Funfest shows young people that math and science are integral parts of everyday life. Students also learn that math and science education can lead to diverse, exciting careers."

The three-day Funfest engaged local students with interactive workshops and hands-on displays. With Raytheon Missile Systems leading the way, more than 300 local mathematicians, engineers and scientists brought 60 demonstrations to life. The Funfest is a collaborative effort between Raytheon, the University of Arizona, IBM, Honeywell, local schools and other partners.

The Funfest featured a Raytheon MathMovesU booth. Raytheon's MathMovesU program is an innovative initiative designed to engage middle school students in math by illustrating the connection between math, their interests and "cool" careers. The focal point of the program is the MathMovesU.com Web site. The site is designed to stimulate student interest in math through compelling content and prize-winning contests.

Raytheon is committed to reversing the national decline in math and science skills. The MathMovesU program grants $1 million annually to teachers, students and schools.

Raytheon Company, with 2007 sales of $21.3 billion, is a technology leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 86 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.

  Contact:
  Mike Nachshen
  520.794.4088 - office
  520.269.5697 - mobile
  Michael_nachshen@raytheon.com

SOURCE: Raytheon Company

CONTACT: Mike Nachshen of Raytheon Missile Systems, +1-520-794-4088
(office) or +1-520-269-5697 (mobile), Michael_nachshen@raytheon.com

Web site: http://www.raytheon.com/
http://www.mathmovesu.com/