Friday, March 19, 2010

Russians interested in tanker bid

Russia's United Aircraft Corp. is planning to bid on the contract to build tankers for the Air Force. The Wall Street Journal, citing a person familiar with the plans, said the company will offer the Ilyushin Il-96 wide-body jet. The plane would be largely built in Russia and assembled in the United States. United Aircraft, a consortium owned by the Russian government, is planning to partner with an unnamed "small" U.S. defense contractor. (Source: Wall Street Journal, 03/19/10) Gulf Coast note: EADS’ plans are to assemble its tankers in Mobile, Ala.