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UPDATED -- AF officials comment on GAO tanker bid decision

  • Published
WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  Government Accountability Office officials announced their findings June 18 and sustained portions of the Boeing protest of the KC-45A aerial refueling tanker competition.

The contract, originally awarded to Northrop Grumman, is for the development and procurement of up to 179 tanker aircraft for approximately $35 billion.

Air Force officials are currently reviewing the GAO decision and once the review is complete, Air Force officials will be in a position to determine the best course of action.

"The Air Force will do everything we can to rapidly move forward so America receives this urgently needed capability," said Sue C. Payton, assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition. "The Air Force will select the best value tanker for our nation's defense, while being good stewards of the taxpayer dollar," said Ms. Payton.

"As soon as possible, we will provide the Air Force's way ahead," she said. "We appreciate the GAO's professionalism and thoroughness in its assessment of the protest of the KC-45A source selection."