We reported here last week that a Northrop-Grumman/EADS coalition was the surprise winner over Boeing in the competition for the Air Force’s new tanker. It seems the push backfrom the Hill has already commenced:
To date, no legislation has been introduced to force a re-examination of the deal, but that’s not really the point. The rhetoric from Capitol Hill is designed to demonstrate to Boeing — and their constituent employees — that the lawmakers will likely lend support to a challenge, if the aircraft manufacturer chooses to bring one (highly likely). Another fact that has come to light which may encourage Boeing to contest the award is the news that France is trying to lock U.S. firms out of the European defense market. On the subject of a potential challenge, defense analyst Loren Thompson encourages Boeing to think twice:
Boeing will reportedly be ‘debriefed’ on March 7, when the Air Force explains why the firm’s bid fell short. We should learn soon thereafter whether the final chapter has been written on this deal, or whether the saga will continue–further delaying the production of badly-needed aircraft.
