The following is a statement from Stephen D. Ramsey, Lockheed Martin's US101 vice president and general manager:

"From the outset Team US101 has been prepared to meet every deadline from the customer; we remain committed to working with the Navy to ensure that the commander-in-chief gets the best helicopter available, on time. The Navy's decision to delay awarding the Marine One contract will have no impact on our chances of winning the competition. We remain confident that the US101 will be selected because it is the best and safest helicopter for our President. With more than 56,000 flying hours, including missions in Bosnia and Iraq, the US101 has proven that it is ready for the presidential mission now."

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin