AIRBUS: Pentagon launches contest for aerial tanker contract

The Pentagon on Wednesday officially launched a competition to replace its aging, aerial refueling tankers. It released the requirements needed to fulfill a contract potentially worth $35 billion.

Two aerospace giants were expected to vie for the contract to build 179 tankers -- Chicago-based Boeing Co. and a team composed of Century City-based Northrop Grumman Corp. and Airbus parent European Aeronautic Defense & Space Co. The companies have 75 days to submit bids.

In recent weeks, however, Northrop threatened to stay out of the competition, arguing that the requirements may favor Boeing.

For more: Pentagon launches contest for aerial tanker contract - Los Angeles Times