Pentagon chief Gates reaffirms plan for aerial tanker bidding - al.com

Pentagon chief Gates reaffirms plan for aerial tanker bidding - al.com: "WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced plans Monday to consolidate production of the DDG-1000 destroyer at Bath Iron Works in Maine and move forward with a competition to replace the Air Force's aerial refueling tanker fleet.

The recommendations were part of a sweeping series of changes designed by Gates to remake the nation's defense budget.

Without offering details, Gates said the Pentagon will maintain the 'schedule and funding' for the tanker, with a goal of soliciting new bids this summer."