Ala. Officials Say Tanker Delays Are Embarassing WASHINGTON, D.C. (APR - Alabama Public Radio ) - Alabama leaders are venting frustration over the Pentagon's decision to again delay its Air Force tanker bidding. They call the move announced Wednesday bewildering and unacceptable.

U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner, a Republican from Mobile, says he's embarrased for the Defense Department's leadership.

A team led by Northrop Grumman Corp. wants to build the tankers at Mobile, creating an estimated 1,500 jobs. Northrop won the $35 billion contract initially, but government auditors said the process was flawed. Boeing has been competing with the Northrop team for the contract.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday a decision on the contract will be put off until a new administration is in place.

Gov. Bob Riley said it's time to put the warfighters first, instead of politics and the complaints of suppliers.

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