1or2thoughts

“The Air Force stated on page one of the KC-X solicitation that this was to be a Capabilities Based acquisition,” said Randy Belote, a vice president of communications for Northrop. “The KC-30 is far superior to its competitor in every area of capability and meets or exceeds the key requirements established for future warfighters by today's Combatant Commanders. The Combatant Commanders and the Air Force have made it clear that they want a new and versatile Tanker capable of performing its mission in new ways, not an old Tanker employing yesterday’s methods.”

That sounds like a threat to me. $500M fine to the Northurp/Airbus for laying the groundwork for a protest.

HeraldNet: Aerospace Blog