Tanker contest structure decision soon

Reuters reports that the Pentagon will decide in a few days how to structure the multi-billion-dollar contest to replace the Air Force's tanker fleet. Said Defense Secretary Robert Gates: “I’m probably within a few days of making a decision on the structure … and who will be the acquisition authority.” He hopes to get a request for proposal out by mid-summer. Boeing and the Northrop Grumman/EADS team will compete for the contract. (Source: Reuters, 06/18/09) Gulf Coast note: If it wins, EADS wants to assemble the tankers, based on the A330, in Mobile, Ala. Boeing, which may offer the 777 or the 767, will build them in Washington state.