PALUBA

Boeing has withdrawn from the competition to replace the Swiss air force's F-5 fighter fleet, saying the latest version of the Super Hornet was overqualified to do the job the European nation required.
Potential bidders for a deal which could see the Swiss purchase 24 new combat aircraft have until early July to respond to an initial request for proposals issued in January. A final request for proposals is expected early next year.
The U.S. fighter supplier issued a statement April 30, saying that after a thorough review, it had decided against entering the competition "due to the disparity between the requirements for an F-5 replacement aircraft and the next generation capabilities of the F/A-18E/F Block II."
The withdrawal appears to leave the way open for a European victory. Dassault's Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Saab Gripen are the other contenders.
An EADS spokesman said May 1 that the Typhoon "is clearly staying in the competition."
Saab said it believes the Gripen is the perfect replacement for the F-5 and will respond to the request for proposals. Dassault couldn't be contacted. Most of Europe is closed May 1 for May Day celebrations.
Earlier C/D versions of the F-18 remain in service with the Swiss air force, and the U.S. company said it is continuing to support the multiphase modernization program currently underway.