The early reliability of the RB211's created the Lockheed "Bi-star" as it was known at Cathay...
The engine issue really hurt the sales as it was only configured for the RR RB211 unlike the DC-10 which offered GE and PW options..
The other reason that the USAF chose the KC-10 over the L1011 was the configuration around the centre engines for the boom.
The L1011 however was wonderful to fly in....
