Posted on 02/08/2011 7:58:24 PM PST by sukhoi-30mki
UPDATE 1-Brazil seeks better terms in Boeing jet bid-source
Rousseff voices preference for Boeing in jets tender
* Brazil seeks more guarantees on technology, better terms
* Rousseff sees deal as way of bolstering ties with U.S. (Adds details, context)
By Brian Winter
SAO PAULO, Feb 8 (Reuters) - Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has told visitors she believes Boeing's (BA.N) F-18 is the best jet among three finalists in a multi-billion dollar Air Force fighter tender, but she is still pressing for better terms on technology transfers that are critical to any deal.
Rousseff raised the issue of the jet tender during a meeting in Brasilia on Monday with U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, sources with knowledge of the conversation told Reuters. They spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks.
Rousseff told Geithner she considered the purchase of at least three dozen jets as a way to not only modernize Brazil's Air Force but also potentially to improve strategic and trade ties with the United States -- a major goal of her foreign policy since taking office on Jan. 1.
However, Rousseff said she remained concerned about the transfers of proprietary technology that Brazil wants as a way to help develop its own defense industry as part of any deal.
She is seeking both improved terms from Boeing and further guarantees from the U.S. government that it will allow sensitive military technology to change hands, the sources said.
The other finalists in the bidding process are the Rafale jet built by France's Dassault (AVMD.PA) and the Gripen NG produced by Sweden's Saab (SAABb.ST).
Rousseff's comments -- plus
(Excerpt) Read more at reuters.com ...
Ping!! Potentially massive coup for Boeing and bitter blow for Dassault. If true.
Double wow. Dassault, at this rate, will be getting out of the manned jet industry if it misses out on Brazil and India. Guess it is UCAVs for them when it comes to military materiel.
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