Congressman Rick Larsen's Online Office

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on the Air Force’s final Request for Proposals (RFP) for the aerial refueling tanker program. Larsen’s congressional district includes Boeing’s Everett plant, assembly site for the 747, 767, 777 and 787.

“I am pleased that the Air Force is moving forward with the process of buying the next generation of aerial refueling tankers.  American service members and taxpayers deserve a fair, open, and transparent competition so we can get the best tankers at the lowest price.

“The final RFP released today appears to differ little from the draft RFP that was circulated last year.  I applaud the Air Force for remaining focused on the needs of the warfighter.

“I remain concerned that the final RFP still does not reflect the illegal subsidies provided to Airbus by European governments.  I will continue to work with the Administration to resolve this conflict between our trade and defense procurement policies.

“Washington state is home to the best aerospace workers in the world.  I will continue to support this workforce by holding the Department of Defense accountable for its commitment to conduct a fair, open, and transparent tanker competition and making sure the contractors provide the highest quality tankers at the best value for American taxpayers.”

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