Washington, DC – Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO), ranking member of the O&I subcommittee of the House Armed Services committee, released the following statement regarding today’s announcement by the Government Accountability Office regarding the Air Force’s refueling aircraft contract:

“The GAO’s announcement today reinforces my belief that buying these foreign-made aircraft is a bad move.  It is clear that there were major irregularities in the contracting process which resulted in a flawed decision. There are also serious strategic issues with outsourcing our national defense instead of fostering a strong domestic defense industry.  For both reasons, I am very happy with today’s decision to overturn the tanker contract.

“This decision by the GAO is great news for the American defense industry.  This keeps jobs in America and keeps jobs in St. Louis.  Many small and medium size defense contractors will be able to grow and expand their businesses as a result.

 “In light of the GAO’s analysis, the Air Force should reconsider their decision and recompete the contract.  If the Air Force does not do so willingly, I will work in my role on the House Armed Services Committee to take legislative action to require the Air Force to reconsider this decision.”