>>5. As for the idea JtS makes, of using our current inventory, the idea is to allow our forces to use assets which do not require human on-scene control or at least to reduce their exposure. As I have often said, a million dollar missle has a lousy retirement program, where as I personally have cost the US Government about that amount of money in medical expenses in the 40 years since 'Nam. And we also reduce the chance of newer Hanoi Hiltons.<<

I'm not sure we understand each other. I meant two things about the current inventory.

1. For Tanker Planes we do not need to make great strides in technology.
2. Modern missions, and economic prudence probably mean that we need fewer tankers.

We certainly do not need a constant fleet of B52's B1's or even B2's in the air to deter the Soviets. Claymore I think that you correctly pointed out that Drones and cruise missiles are a safer, and cheaper way to go. I also think you will agree that the Russians are not nearly the thermonuclear threat that the Soviets were thought to be.

Military considerations aside. The Airbus deal, to me, seems like an economic mistake for Unionist and Bush supporters alike.

>>2. According to the newspapers and media (for what its worth) the Boeing did not meet ANY of the criteria (some of which were classified) while the Airbus met them ALL. One was fuel cargo capacity, which was double the amount the Boeing could carry. This is especially important for loiter-time and fuel staging for stealth aircraft, in or out of a mission. They could also deliver a greater number of these aircraft in a much shorter time.<<

As a point of order, what I heard and read in the media said that the A330 Bid beat the Boeing 767 bid in all five areas not that Boeing did not comply. Both planes complied. It was that the larger, airbus plane out performed.

Boeing is not so stupid that they could not look at the specs of the two planes and see that the Airbus was larger. Why did they not bid the 777? Perhaps the link below will provide some insight.

McCain Hates American Jobs!

BTW the above link title Is meant to be sarcasm. I imagined myself as Fox News if it had been a Democratic Senator.