Beats Boeing To The Official Punch

Northrop Grumman announced Tuesday it has submitted its proposal to the US Air Force for the KC-135 Tanker Replacement Program, KC-X -- two days before the required proposal due date of April 12, 2007.

Northrop Grumman is offering the KC-30 Tanker to the US Air Force to replace its aging fleet of KC-135 tankers. The KC-30 Tanker is based upon the A330 platform and will be assembled in Mobile, AL. The A330 platform was selected in the last three worldwide tanker competitions to support the air forces of Australia, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates, according to the company.

"As a global leader in innovative systems, products, and solutions, Northrop Grumman keeps sight of the vision that drives us -- to be the most trusted provider of systems and technologies that ensure the security and freedom of our nation and its allies. The KC-30 Tanker embodies our commitment to that vision," said Ronald D. Sugar, Northrop Grumman chairman and chief executive officer.

"The competition to build the KC-X is as much a competition of vision as it is of aircraft," said Scott J. Seymour, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman Integrated Systems sector. "The KC-30 Tanker will provide our Air Force leaders and combatant commanders everything they have asked for in air-to-air refueling and more. More refueling capacity, more versatility against an uncertain future; more capability and more value per aircraft. Northrop Grumman and its KC-30 Tanker Team are in this competition to win it."

The KC-30 carries 45,000 more pounds of fuel than a KC-135. It is also designed to refuel Navy and coalition aircraft, and to serve as a multi-role transport aircraft to move passengers, cargo and medical evacuation patients. The KC-30 incorporates defense systems, precision fly-by-wire technology, and the ability to integrate a communications suite with a global support network.

As Aero-News has reported, Boeing is also expected to submit its 767-derived KC-767 tanker for bidding in the KC-X competition. Despite going on record in February, stating the company intends to offer the KC-767, however... Boeing has yet to formally bid.

FMI: www.northropgrumman.com, www.af.mil