Aerospace rivals Boeing and EADS, vying to build new refueling tankers for the US Air Force, are offering military versions of successful commercial aircraft.
Boeing KC-767
The US firm plans to build a tanker based on its long-haul 767 airliner that has been in service since 1982. Dubbed the “NextGen Tanker” and slightly smaller than its competitor, the plane would be assembled in Everett, Washington and outfitted in Wichita, Kansas.
Boeing says its plane offers $10 billion in fuel savings over 40 years and 15-20 percent lower maintenance costs compared to its rival.
Promoting its offer as “made in America,” the firm promises the program would create 50,000 jobs in the United States and ensure a role for hundreds of suppliers in 40 states.
EADS KC-45
EADS North America is proposing to modify the long-haul Airbus A330, which has been flying since 1993.
The company says its tanker can carry more fuel and cargo and operate over a wider radius than its competitor. But the larger plane could also also cost more to fuel.
EADS says its project would generate 48,000 jobs and would be assembled at a new plant planned in Mobile, Alabama. If it wins the contract, the European aerospace firm also plans to build the commercial A330 cargo plane at the same site.
Without a strategic partner since the withdrawal of Northrop Grumman, EADS has linked up with 200 American suppliers, including General Electric and Rockwell Collins.
