EVERETT — The Boeing Co. handed over its third aerial tanker to Japan this week as the Air Force edged closer to restarting its lucrative aerial refueling tanker competition.
After President Barack Obama promised more scrutiny on military spending in his speech to Congress, Pentagon officials this week reiterated that replacing the Air Force’s aging KC-135 tanker fleet remains a priority. The tanker saga has dragged on for eight years with both Boeing and Northrop Grumman “winning” tanker awards that were later rescinded.
Defense Secretary Robert Gates has said he plans to kick off the competition again this spring. The Air Force took a step in that direction, submitting fresh requirements to a review council on Thursday, reported dodbuzz.com, an online defense journal.
Earlier this month, Rep. John Murtha, D-Penn., told reporters in Everett that he believes splitting the lucrative contract may be the fastest way to get new tankers. Murtha, who serves as chairman of a defense appropriations committee, is worried a sole source tanker award would be disputed again. But Murtha has to convince Gates, who opposes a split award.
When the Air Force awarded the contract to Northrop Grumman and its partner EADS last February, Boeing successfully protested the bid. Government auditors recommended a new start to the contest.
This week, Boeing delivered its third 767-based tanker to it Japanese partner, Itochu Corp., for delivery to the Japanese government in early March.
“This new KC-767J will be a valuable addition to Japan’s tanker fleet as the country performs vital missions in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Dave Bowman, Boeing vice president and general manager, Tanker Programs, in a statement.
Boeing has fallen behind schedule in delivering its 767-based tankers to Japan and Italy. Both countries have four tankers each on order. Boeing handed over the initial two KC-767s to Japan last year. It plans to deliver Italy’s first tanker later this year and Japan’s last in early 2010.
Boeing’s stock declined all week following the president’s speech Tuesday night. Shares fell 14 percent from Monday’s open to close Friday at $31.44.
Reporter Michelle Dunlop: 425-339-3454 or mdunlop@heraldnet.com.
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