But Air Force Agrees To Hear Lockheed, Sikorsky Protests

Thanks for the suggestions, really... but we're gonna stick with Plan A. That, in a nutshell, is the message the US Air Force had for the Government Accountability Office this week, as Air Force Secretary Michael W. Wynne said the USAF would not reopen bidding on the $15 billion Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR-X) contract awarded to Boeing last year.

In a small concession to the GAO recommendations, however -- which are just that, recommendations, that carry little legislative weight -- the Air Force did say it will continue talks with the two companies that protested Boeing's selection, Sikorsky Aircraft and Lockheed Martin.

"We’re working with the GAO, Boeing, Sikorsky and Lockheed to resolve the concerns and ensure and open and transparent process," said USAF spokesman Major Aaron Burgstein to the Air Force Times.

As Aero-News reported, the GAO recommended last month the Air Force reopen discussions with all three competitors, and ask for new bids for the lucrative deal.

During questioning before the Senate Armed Services Committee Tuesday, Secretary Wynne flatly stated the competition would not be reopened -- meaning Boeing will likely hold onto the contract, regardless of talks with Lockheed and Sikorsky.

FMI: www.af.mil