WICHITA, Kan. - McConnell Air Force Base is the largest tanker base in the world, and personnel know the problems keeping airborne a fleet built in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Metal fatigue, corrosion, and replacing parts never intended to be replaced are common. As the debate continues in Washington over the Boeing vs Northrop Grumman contract to replace the fleet, those in the field struggle to keep aloft aircraft so critical for the nation’s defense. (Source: Wichita Eagle, 05/17/09) Gulf Coast note: Northrop and partner EADS plan to assemble the tankers in Mobile, Ala., if they win all or part of the contract.
