The Air Force has slowed down the award process for its KC-X tanker replacement program primarily because the service is documenting every step along the way. “We’re focused on taking the time necessary to ensure communication and documentation among possible vendors creates an awards process that is fair, open, and transparent,” said Air Force spokesman Lt. Col. Jim Schaefer yesterday. We reported earlier that the chief factor was the shift in strategy to a one-winner-take-all approach, but Schaefer assures us that decision came before the Air Force released its request for proposals early this year. Schaefer also said that the service is “on target” for an award by the end of the calendar year.
The six-week government shutdown did not affect the hours flown by Air Force pilots, a service spokesperson told Air & Space Forces Magazine—avoiding what could have been a major blow at a time when flying hours are already lower than they have been in decades.
