Donley: Change in tanker request unlikely

The Pentagon is unlikely to change its list of requirements for a fleet of aerial tankers, despite objections from one of the bidders, Air Force Secretary Michael Donley said. Northrop Grumman and partner EADS said the terms favor Boeing. Northrop said it would not compete without significant changes. (Source: Reuters, 12/14/09) U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R.-Ala., said Tuesday that he’s unsure what Congress will do if the Northrop makes good on its threat. “I don't think Congress is going to want to be drawn into this, although it could very well happen," he said. (Source: Defense News, 12/15/09) Meanwhile, the war of words continues. A comment on NPR by U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., saying she’s never seen anyone standing in line to build anything in Alabama, elicited a host of responses pointing out that Alabama is home to automakers, shipbuilders, aerospace workers and more. (Multiple, McClatchy, 12/15/09)