WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement after Secretary of Defense Robert Gates announced an expedited re-competition process for the Air Force tanker contract:

“Secretary Gates’ decision provides a responsible way forward that will ensure the Air Force tanker contract is awarded on the merits of the proposals.  With the current tanker fleet consisting of planes that are on average 47 years old, it is critically important that newer and safer tankers are fielded without unnecessary political meddling.  Members of Congress should support this expedited re-competition process that will efficiently resolve the concerns raised by the GAO.”

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