Congressman Rick Larsen's Online Office

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement on the Air Force’s draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for the aerial refueling tanker program.  Larsen’s congressional district is home to Boeing’s Everett plan, assembly site for the 747, 767, 777 and 787.

“The procurement process for the tanker program must be a fair, open and transparent competition that ensures our warfighters get the best tanker for their mission and our taxpayers get the most bang for their buck.  

“Last year, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) upheld Boeing’s protest after it determined that the Air Force had failed to take into consideration the lower cost and greater capabilities of the Boeing tanker.  After an initial review of the draft RFP, I am pleased that the Air Force is focused on addressing many of the issues raised by the GAO last year. 

“The Air Force made it clear that they are trying to reduce subjectivity within the competition by eliminating over 700 so-called ‘optional requirements’ from last year’s RFP and instead focusing on the core needs of warfighter.  The Air Force also said that it will quantify the life-cycle cost of fuel and military construction associated with each bid, which is vital to protecting the American taxpayer from hidden costs.

“I am concerned, however, that the draft RFP released today does not take into account the World Trade Organization’s recent ruling that Airbus has received illegal subsidies from the European Union.  Unfortunately, the draft RFP ignores this obvious conflict between our nation’s trade policy and our nation’s defense procurement policy. 

“I have asked President Obama to present a clear plan to make sure that American taxpayers are not forced to foot the bill for illegal European subsidies and look forward to hearing his response.

“As the competition for the aerial refueling tanker moves forward, I will work with my colleagues to hold the Air Force accountable to a fair, open and transparent competition that protects American taxpayers and American workers.

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