Tankers a lot

There is a long shadow caused by ethics issues back in 2003 that may very well played a factor in this decision. Integrity and character do matter.

What was the issue?

I have heard most of the griping about awarding this contract to a group that includes EADS. Fact is, they are working with an American company, Northrup-Grumman, and will provide new jobs in Mobile, AL. The folks complaining are Boeing and the politicians from Washington and Kansas where the new jobs would have been if Boeing had won.

I was hoping that the issue was mainly one of product quality and price: getting a good product for a good price.

In a nutshell, here are some details about the scandal.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2002091816_webboeing16.html

I see. And I agree with your assessment!

That is a scandal, I believe it is more wide spread.

It is pretty common what I have experience for pentagon officials where their jobs were in procurment, retiring and then working for the same defense contractor that was bidding for work

$250,000 fine, wonder what his salary was as well as Darlene Druyun's, and her departing gift to Boeing before she left. And if her kids are still working at Boeing.

I recall that incident, and I remember thinking at the time that it might not affect the decision because there have to be more spoiled apples in the barrel than those two. Maybe I was wrong. I don't often hope for that, but when I do, I consider it to be a postitive sign... (+)

Bottom line, a serviceable aircraft to support our troops.

First we should get the best value for the money. If there are American lives at stake, why get less?

If there is a challenge to the competitors, disqualify them at the start, not after they won. They are crying about job loss, not the facts of the bid.

There are many more American jobs being created than the losers want to admit. I guess some people think jobs in Alabama are not as important as jobs in Washington state.

If we want a social welfare program for the Boeing exec and workers, just do it. But not at the cost of quality or performance of the guys (and girls) relying on this equipment.

The election will highlight the wrong facts. As technical people we should be interested in the action.

In Mobile it is the best news since last year's Steel plant (German Company) decided to build there.

And yes, I live in Mobile County.