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ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) European Aeronautic Defence & Space Co. NV says it has appointed General Electric Co.'s Sean O'Keefe as chief executive officer of its North American division, effective Nov. 1.

O'Keefe, former vice president of GE Aviation's Washington operations, will be replacing the current CEO of EADS North America, Ralph Crosby. Crosby will remain as chairman and will oversee EADS' role in the Air Force's $35 billion aerial refueling competition.

The company says Crosby will remain on the parent company's executive committee through the transition. O'Keefe will become a member of that committee starting Jan. 1.

EADS North America is a division of the European aerospace and defense company.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-20-09 1058CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list