AEROSPACE

McDonnell, Others Reportedly Considering Rockwell Assets: Potential suitors led by McDonnell Douglas Corp. have had exploratory talks about buying Rockwell International Corp.’s space and defense lines, but no deal appears imminent, according to sources close to the situation. Rockwell--the Seal Beach-based builder of the space shuttle fleet, missiles and other aerospace gear--has been looking to divest those operations since March. The Washington Post reported that McDonnell Douglas “is close to a deal” to buy the divisions, but sources said McDonnell has not even begun final negotiations because of a strike by 6,700 of its machinists in St. Louis. The companies would not comment.