If Reuters news service is right, the Air Force could extend its timeline for issuing a final request for proposals for its new aerial refueling aircraft competition. Reuters reports that service officials may hold off until mid-February “to iron out remaining details.” Those details probably include Northrop Grumman’s desire to see some emphasis on the cargo-hauling role for the new KC-X. There is no indication whether this RFP delay might prompt USAF to push its September 2007 award date forward.
Navy Adm. Samuel J. Paparo Jr. assumed leadership of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, succeeding Navy Adm. John Aquilino at a change of command ceremony, urging action amid China's “increasing intrusive and expansionist claims,” on May 3