For Release: Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO APPLAUDS GAO FINDING THAT TANKER CONTRACT PROCESS WAS UNFAIR

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today applauded the finding of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that the process by which the Air Force awarded the contract for new aerial refueling tankers to EADS/Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation in February was not fair, upholding a protest lodged by the Boeing Corporation. Costello has been critical of the award, noting in particular that the original award would not maximize American jobs or best meet the long-term needs of the military.

“The GAO has conducted a thorough review of the contract process and found that Boeing was disadvantaged in several ways,” said Costello. “This is an opportunity to fully consider all the factors that will best meet our aerial refueling needs, and I look forward to this process moving forward expeditiously.”

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