Some industry analysts are not buying the “opt out” declared by Northrop Grumman earlier this week, likening it to similar ones from both Boeing and Northrop in the original KC-X competition. Credit Suisse analyst Robert Spingarn reportedly stated in an industry note, “Northrop’s decision to abandon the tanker bid versus Boeing is merely a posturing move in our view.” However, others are taking the threat more seriously. Rep. John Murtha (D-Pa.), chairman of the defense appropriations panel, told reporters that Northrop’s revelation is a “blow to the program” and planned to talk with Pentagon acquisition chief Ash Carter, perhaps to revisit the split-buy approach he favors. (Northrop backers also recently cited interest in a split award.) Defense analyst Loren Thompson of the Lexington Institute blogs that Northrop’s Wes Bush “is quite willing to walk away.” (Also see Market Watch report; The Telegraph report; The Hill report; DOD Buzz report)
Air Force General Sentenced In Historic Court-Martial
June 30, 2024
A military judged sentenced an Air Force general on June 29 to a reprimand, restriction to Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph for two months, and $10,000 forfeiture of pay per month for 6 months.