US refueling tanker contract to go up for new bid

The Pentagon has decided to reopen the bidding for a $35 billion contract to supply the US Air Force with new aerial fuel tankers, following a recommendation from a congressional watchdog. This decision is a setback for EDS and Northrop Grumman, who had initially won the contract. The Air Force had chosen the KC 45, a version of the Airbus A330, over Boeing's modified 767. However, the US Government Accountability Office found significant flaws in the bidding process. This development also delays the Air Force's plans to replace its aging fleet of tankers, which are on average 47 years old. US Defense Secretary Robert Gates aims to finalize the contract by the end of the year.

What prompted the Pentagon to reopen the bidding process for the aerial fuel tanker contract?

• A recommendation from a congressional watchdog

• A request from the Air Force

• A decision by the President

• A public protest

Which companies initially won the contract for the new aerial fuel tankers?

• Boeing and Lockheed Martin

• EDS and Northrop Grumman

• Airbus and Raytheon

• General Dynamics and BAE Systems

What was the main reason for the decision to rebid the contract?

• The contract was awarded to a foreign company

• The contract was too expensive

• The bidding process was found to be flawed

• The Air Force changed its requirements

What is the average age of the current US Air Force tankers?

• 20 years

• 47 years

• 30 years

• 60 years

By when does US Defense Secretary Robert Gates hope to award the new contract?

• By the end of the year

• By the end of the decade

• By the end of the month

• By the end of the week