EADS could pick L-3 Communications as a partner if it decides to compete against the Boeing Co. for a lucrative U.S. Air Force tanker contract.
Both Reuters and Defense News say the European company has been in discussions with several U.S. suppliers but that L-3 has emerged the favorite for a partnership with EADS.
EADS’ original partner, Northrop Grumman, dropped out of the contest on March 8, saying the Air Force favored Boeing for the contract to replace 179 KC-135 tankers. Boeing is planning to offer the Air Force a tanker based on its Everett-built 767 commercial jet.
The Pentagon said recently that it will extend the May 10 deadline for bids by 60 days if EADS formally requests an extension. Although EADS has not done so yet, the company had said it would need a few weeks to decide whether to continue on in the contest.
The Air Force has made two previous attempts at replacing its aging tankers.
EADS is the parent company of Airbus – Boeing’s rival in the commercial aircraft market. The European consortium would like to get its foot in the door with the U.S. defense business and in manufacturing on American soil. EADS had planned to set up shop in Mobile, Ala., in working with Northrop.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
