WOOD DALE, Ill., /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --AAR CORP. (NYSE: AIR) announced today that Jeffrey Schloesser, former Director of Army Aviation, has joined the Company as President of its Aviation Worldwide Services (AWS) business unit. Schloesser will be responsible for leading strategic planning, operations and growth of AWS, which provides airlift services and specialized aircraft modifications.

Schloesser's prestigious career with the U.S. Army spans 34 years, retiring as a major general. He joins AAR with more than 20 years of senior-level, leadership and operations experience, which includes leading the Army's $6 billion annual modernization and transformation plan for a fleet of 4,000 aircraft and 76,000 personnel. Schloesser also served as Commanding General of the 101st Airborne Division and Regional Command-East in Afghanistan, leading a 26,000 soldier combat division. He previously served as Deputy Director of the National Counter Terrorism Center, establishing the first-ever Strategic Operation Planning Division and leading an interagency team focused on national security and counter terrorism.

"Jeff's extraordinary background and experience make him an excellent fit to lead our AWS business and contribute to AAR's strategies for growth in government and defense markets," said Randy Martinez, Group Vice President of AAR's Government and Defense Services segment. "In addition to his extensive strategic planning experience, Jeff led divisions responsible for transporting personnel and equipment in support of remote, in-theater operations and optimized fleets of helicopters, fixed-wing and unmanned aircraft, making him an outstanding choice to head up AWS."

Schloesser will report to Randy Martinez, Group Vice President, AAR Government and Defense Services, who served as president of AWS on an interim basis. AAR acquired AWS in April 2010 to provide airlift services and aircraft modifications in support of national defense priorities, nation building initiatives, humanitarian relief efforts and government "smart power" initiatives.

AAR is a leading provider of products and value-added services to the worldwide aerospace and government/defense industry. With facilities and sales locations around the world, AAR uses its close-to-the-customer business model to serve aviation and government/defense customers through four operating segments: Aviation Supply Chain; Government and Defense Services; Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul; and Structures and Systems. More information can be found at www.aarcorp.com.