The US Air Force is asking the defense industry for ideas on which airframe to pick for its next generation tanker.  

Last week, the Air Force released a classified request for information, seeking pitches from the industry on the airframe of the Next Generation Air-Refueling System (NGAS).  

The Air Force has kept its request for information classified, but some information is known. Defense companies have until October 24 to respond with their proposals. Moreover, the documents in the request indicate that the Air Force is seeking ideas with regard to the airframe of the NGAS tanker.  

In the past, the Air Force has requested proposals on engines and onboard systems for the NGAS.

Yet in the present climate, the future of the NGAS itself may be at risk. Air Force officials are reconsidering the stealth requirement for the NGAS........

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