The Pentagon has cleared the Air Force to pursue a “traditional competitive acquisition” tanker replacement effort, says Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne. The service expects to issue a request for information by the end of April, followed by a draft request for proposal this fall and a final RFP in January 2007. A contract award could be made in summer 2007. There are two likely competitors: Boeing or the Northrop Grumman-EADS team. However, even with Northrop fronting, the presence of the European EADS does not sit well with certain lawmakers, including Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.