The Army affirmed Friday that its contract with Oshkosh Corporation to produce its Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) should go ahead.
Rep. Tom Petri welcomed the news.
"I am pleased but I am not surprised," he said. "I always knew Oshkosh was the best place to build these vehicles. The bidding process was fair, and fairness was all we were asking for. I am confident that our local workers will do a great job for the military and the country."
In August, the U.S. Army chose Oshkosh Corporation to produce its Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) at a cost of $3 billion. The result was a howl of protest from BAE Systems, Inc., which previously produced the vehicle, and Navistar, which bid on the contract.
In early September, each company separately urged the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to consider blocking the Oshkosh contract. GAO agreed to look into the issue, and subsequently announced in December that, while it upheld most of the Army's decision, it recommended that the Army reevaluate some portions. The Army was then given 60 days to reconsider the contract in light of the GAO recommendations, giving the Army until Sunday, February 14, to respond to the recommendations.
“This is great news for Oshkosh Corporation and a testament to the quality of their products and the commitment of their workforce. This will be an economic boost to the Fox Valley and the entire state,” Senator Herb Kohl said.
“Today’s decision is great news for the Oshkosh Corporation and its employees who work every day to produce high quality vehicles and products for our Armed Forces,” Senator Russ Feingold said. “Wisconsinites are rightfully proud of Oshkosh Corporation. The Army’s decision shows that this Wisconsin company is the best company to provide these essential vehicles for our service members.”
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