Local Business Leaders Want Defense Contract Awarded to U.S. Firm

None by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) Utah business leaders and politicians are calling for a $40 billion military contract for upgraded aerial tankers to be awarded to a U.S. based manufacturer.

Lane Beattie, President and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce, says if the contract is awarded to the foreign-based firm EADS, it would put more than 600 jobs in Utah, and 44,000 jobs nationwide, in jeopardy.

Beattie estimates the contract would have a $22 million impact on Utah's economy. In addition, seven Utah suppliers would likely have a role with the tanker contract. Ron Kusina, Executive Director of the Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce, says there are approximately three supply jobs for every manufacturing job.

A decision on the contract is expected shortly after the first of the year.

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