Northrop Rejects Tanker Bid Under Draft RFP

http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/DRAFT120109.xml

Northrop Grumman told the Pentagon Dec. 1 it will not bid for the USAF
replacement aerial tanker under the existing request for proposals
(RFP).

The decision - reminiscent of an earlier maneuver in the tanker saga -
apparently still could be reversed if the Air Force RFP was
"substantially" changed, according to comments made in a letter from
Northrop President and COO Wes Bush to the top defense acquisition
official, USAF secretary and deputy defense secretary. The letter
further stresses the government's desire for competitive KC-X bidding,
as well as Northrop's supplier base, reportedly counting more than 200
providers and local U.S. community partnerships.