Hughes Aircraft sought extra work from its staff.

The Culver City-based aerospace firm has asked its professional, managerial and technical staff, representing about half of its employees, to work an additional five hours a week without pay. The action is part of a series of cost-cutting moves that the company has made in recent months, aimed at improving its competitive position within the defense industry. Three months ago, the company said it was reducing its white-collar staff by 5%. The company also has cut travel expenses and reduced hiring of temporary employees.