Historical report, published from archived WKRG coverage.
In August 2008, reports that Boeing might leave the aerial-refueling tanker competition drew attention in Mobile, where the Northrop Grumman/EADS proposal was expected to have a major local economic impact.
In an archived WKRG interview, Boeing spokesperson Dan Beck did not give a definite answer on the company’s plans, saying a decision on its path forward would be premature and that the company remained committed to competing under what it viewed as a fair process. U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner told the station he did not believe Boeing would withdraw, characterizing the speculation as a negotiating strategy.
WKRG reported that Boeing and Northrop Grumman had met with Defense Department officials about the draft request for proposals. At the time, a final request was expected within days, bids were due in early October, and a decision was anticipated in December.
This is a historical account of the competition at that stage and does not describe the later procurement outcome.