L-3 appears out as EADS partner

Update, April 16, 0900 PDT: Reuters moved this story this morning about EADS options dwindling away.

DOD Buzz has this analysis on why EADS needs a partner.

Original Post:

Reuters just moved this report that L-3 is probably out as a potential partner for EADS in a possible KC-X tanker bid.

This sends EADS scrambling for alternatives.

Reuters also reports that political pressure may have had a hand in Northrop Grumman’s decision to withdraw and that political issues may be involved in L-3′s apparent decision to withdraw from consideration.

If true, if political interference is at work, “incendiary” won’t even begin to cover the fall-out that could come from this.