Boeing officials said last week that the Air Force told the company to expect the draft request for proposals on the tanker replacement program later this month, followed by a final version in January 2007. USAF should name a winner in September 2007. Word is that the Air Force still is wrestling with whether it wants all one type of aircraft, or a mix of medium and large tankers, since the aircraft will perform the swing role of cargo aircraft.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
