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 did the US Government Accountability Office find about the bidding process?

• It was fair

• It was severely flawed

• It was transparent

• It was efficient

What is the average age of the Air Force's current tankers?

• 30 years

• 40 years

• 47 years

• 50 years