Investments (Schedule Of Ownership Percentages And Balances Of Equity Method Investments) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment Balance	$ 1,003		$ 1,072
Network & Space Systems [Member] | United Launch Alliance [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership Percentages	50.00%
Investment Balance	983		950
Network & Space Systems [Member] | United Space Alliance [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership Percentages	50.00%
Investment Balance	(147)	[1]	(40)	[1]
Primarily Commercial Airplanes [Member] | Other [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment Balance	$ 167		$ 162

[1] Credit balances are a result of our proportionate share of the joint venture's pension and postretirement related adjustments which reduce the carrying value of the investment.