Team Infidel
Forum Spin Doctor
Washington Post
June 13, 2008
Pg. D2
The Air Force has conceded it chose the more expensive option in awarding a $35 billion contract for refueling tankers to a team led by Northrop Grumman instead of Boeing, the companies said.
Northrop acknowledged Boeing's assertions that its proposal included cheaper life cycle costs for the tankers. The company said minor errors resulted in a "slight adjustment" in the operating costs of the two planes.
The Air Force said it cannot legally comment on the tanker proposals, the evaluation process or its selection decision. In a statement, however, the Air Force said it "stands by its process and its decision."
Although the Air Force is not bound by the GAO decision, any finding of error with the competition is certain to give ammunition to Boeing's supporters in Congress as they seek to block or overturn it.
June 13, 2008
Pg. D2
The Air Force has conceded it chose the more expensive option in awarding a $35 billion contract for refueling tankers to a team led by Northrop Grumman instead of Boeing, the companies said.
Northrop acknowledged Boeing's assertions that its proposal included cheaper life cycle costs for the tankers. The company said minor errors resulted in a "slight adjustment" in the operating costs of the two planes.
The Air Force said it cannot legally comment on the tanker proposals, the evaluation process or its selection decision. In a statement, however, the Air Force said it "stands by its process and its decision."
Although the Air Force is not bound by the GAO decision, any finding of error with the competition is certain to give ammunition to Boeing's supporters in Congress as they seek to block or overturn it.