Gates backed into corner?

Defense Secretary Robert Gates thought he punted the aerial tanker problem to someone else, but since he opted to stay on in his post, it’s right back in his hands. Gates has insisted on a winner-take-all in the competition between Boeing and the Northrop Grumman/EADS team, but the House Appropriations Committee says it must review terms of the competition. That increases the chance of politicking. Analysts say the review could lead Gates to agree to a splitting the contract. (Source: Politico, 07/23/09) Gulf Coast note: Northrop/EADS plan to assemble the tankers in Mobile, Ala., if they win. Boeing will build them in Washington if it wins.