Why Boeing Lost the Tanker Contract...

[krigl]

[NickN]

Thanks guys.

And sorry Nick, the opportunity presented itself and I couldn't pass it up.

no problem..

[C]

no problem..  I forwared the link to a few who got a kick out of it.

Actually, the contract is in protest right now  http://boeingblogs.com/tanker/archives/2008/03/boeing_protests_us_air_force_t.html

we got screwed in dirty pool

but thats another story

Can't see any bias or jealousy in that article.

As the requirements were changed to accommodate the bigger, less capable Airbus plane,

That's why the last few tanker orders to be announced across the world went for the Airbus then... The RAF, RAAF, RSAF and UAE aren't thick, and aren't scared of buying Boeing either. However, Boeing offered a less attractive product.

One of the major factors is the airframe design we proposed does not need to be modifed and can be handled by most airports if necessary. And airports do not need to have their runways extended with our design.

? With a tanker either 767 or A330 based, I'm sure most operations will be within range of a NATO standard airfield.

[quote]In evaluating Past Performance, the Air Force ignored the fact that Boeing

[C]

As an end-piece, the following quote from one of the better-informed Pprune posts:

That decision must sound the death knell for the KC-767 tanker*, however, and while its great news for the USAF, it can only be a devastating blow for the Boeing workforce, who have my sympathies, for what that's worth.

*probably not - I suspect that certain "loyal" customers may opt for it still.

[NickN]

LOL

Of course its bias...

[C]

LOL

Of course its bias...  if you saw something like that posted at AB or any other company, it wouldn't be?

As an employee and current user of neither, Airbus' and Boeing's handbags at dawn can be quite entertaining at times. KC-X has just been a little more entertaining then usual, as Boeing seemed to think the contract was there divine right. However, when it comes to all the other "135" replacements, I don't see Boeing needing to worry as long as the USAF wants them based on a larger airframe.

[NickN]

as Boeing seemed to think the contract was there divine right

Absolutely untrue... just like the JPL project, we knew we were beat on that one, fair and square. Whats happening here is unfair and its being manipulated on rotten level. If they playing field was even (or somewhat even) we would accept the defeat gracefully.

I am no longer with Boeing since I retired but I still support them especially when something is not kosher. I have been around that game, at a very high level, for a long time and of course contractors use their clout to make deals.. but this one stinks and its not over.