The Boeing KC-46 Pegasus is an American military aerial refueling and strategic military transport aircraft developed by Boeing from its 767 jet airliner. In February 2011, the tanker was selected by the United States Air Force (USAF) as the winner in the KC-X tanker competition to replace older Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers. The first aircraft was delivered to the USAF in January 2019.[4] The USAF intends to procure 179 tankers by 2027.
KC-46 Pegasus | |
---|---|
![]() | |
A U.S. Air Force KC-46A with refueling boom lowered | |
Role | Tanker/transport |
National origin | United States |
Manufacturer | Boeing Defense, Space & Security |
First flight | 25 September 2015 |
Introduction | 2019 |
Status | In service[1][2] |
Primary users | United States Air Force Japan Air Self-Defense Force |
Produced | 2013–present |
Number built | 78 as of October 2023[3] |
Developed from | Boeing KC-767 |
Development
editBackground
editIn 2001, the U.S. Air Force began a procurement program to replace around 100 of its oldest KC-135E Stratotankers, and selected Boeing's KC-767. The Boeing tanker received the KC-767A designation from the United States Department of Defense in 2002 and appeared in the 2004 edition of DoD model designation report.[5] The USAF decided to lease 100 KC-767 tankers from Boeing.[6]
U.S. Senator John McCain and others criticized the draft leasing agreement as being wasteful and problematic. In response to protests, the USAF struck a compromise in November 2003, whereby it would purchase 80 KC-767s and lease 20 more.[7][8] In December 2003, the Pentagon announced a freeze on the program over an investigation into alleged corruption that led to the jailing of one of its former procurement executives who applied to work for Boeing.[9] The KC-767A contract was canceled by the DoD in January 2006.[10]
USAF KC-X program
editIn 2006, the USAF released a request for proposal (RFP) for a new tanker program, KC-X, to be selected by 2007. Boeing announced it may enter a higher capability tanker based on the Boeing 777, named the KC-777 Strategic Tanker. Airbus partnered with Northrop Grumman to offer the Airbus A330 MRTT, the tanker version of the A330, which was marketed to the USAF under the designation KC-30.[11] In January 2007, the USAF issued the KC-X Aerial Refueling Aircraft RFP, calling for 179 tankers, four system development and demonstration and 175 production, in a contract worth an estimated US$40 billion (~$56.6 billion in 2023).[12] Northrop and EADS expressed dissatisfaction at how the RFP was structured and threatened to withdraw, leaving only Boeing in the running.[13]
In February 2007, Boeing announced it was offering the KC-767 Advanced Tanker for the KC-X,[14] stating that the KC-767 was a better fit than the KC-777 for the requirements.[15] In April 2007, Boeing submitted its KC-767 tanker proposal to USAF.[16] The KC-767 offered for this KC-X round was based on the in-development 767-200LRF (Long Range Freighter), rather than the -200ER on which Italian and Japanese KC-767 aircraft are based,[17] differing by combining the -200ER fuselage, -300F wing, gear, cargo door and floor, -400ER digital flightdeck and flaps, uprated engines, and "sixth-generation" fly-by-wire fuel delivery boom.[18]
Boeing submitted its final proposal in January 2008.[19] In February 2008, the DoD chose the KC-30 over the KC-767, the USAF subsequently designated it KC-45A.[20] Boeing submitted a protest to the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) in March 2008 and waged a public relations campaign in support of their protest.[21] In June, after USAF admissions on bidding process flaws, the GAO upheld Boeing's protest and recommended the contract be rebid.[21] In July 2008, Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced that the USAF would reopen bidding,[22] and put the contract into an "expedited recompetition" with Defense Undersecretary John Young in charge of the selection process, not the USAF.[23] A draft of the revised RFP was provided to contractors in August 2008 for comments.[24] However, in September 2008, the DoD canceled the KC-X solicitation.[25]
In September 2009, the USAF began a new round of bids with a clearer set of criteria, including reducing the number of requirements from 800 to 373 in an attempt to simplify the process and allow a more objective decision to be made.[26] In March 2010, Boeing announced it would bid the KC-767 for the new KC-X round.[27] EADS stated in April 2010 it would submit a bid without Northrop Grumman as a U.S. partner.[28][29] Boeing submitted its KC-767 "NewGen Tanker" bid, based on the 767-200 with an improved version of the KC-10's refueling boom, and cockpit displays from the 787, in July 2010.[30][31][32] Boeing submitted a revised bid in February 2011.[33]
In addition to the KC-X, observers speculate that a modified KC-46 will be used as the basis of the KC-Y tanker program, the second step of the USAF's three-step tanker renewal plan, as replacing it with something entirely new is likely too big a risk.[34] In September 2016, Air Mobility Command stated that the follow-on KC-Y acquisition program to replace the remaining KC-135s had been abandoned in favor of further KC-46s with upgrades.[35]
Selection and early development
editIn February 2011, the USAF announced the selection of Boeing's KC-767 bid, which was designated KC-46A.[36][37] Boeing was awarded a development contract, which called for the delivery of 18 initial operational KC-46s by 2017. The USAF sought a total of 179 new tankers.[38] In June 2011, development costs were reportedly projected to overrun by about $300 million (~$401 million in 2023). Boeing would be responsible for this amount, which exceeds the contract cost cap of $4.9 billion.[39][40] In July 2011, revised projections indicated a reduced cost overrun.[41] In 2013, the USAF added additional crews and flight hours to their future plans in response to a review that showed that the best of current plans did not take full advantage of the KC-46's cargo and aeromedical evacuation advantages over the KC-135.[42]
In August 2013, Boeing and the USAF completed a critical design review (CDR) for the KC-46. With the CDR complete, the design was set and production and testing could proceed. Wing assembly for the first aircraft began in June 2013. Flight testing of the 767-2C airframe, which would be reconfigured into the KC-46, was scheduled to begin in mid-2014. The first fully equipped KC-46 was projected to fly in early 2015. The contract called for Boeing to build four test aircraft and deliver 18 combat-ready tankers by August 2017. The USAF intended to buy 179 KC-46s, with all delivered by 2028.[43][44]
In December 2013, Boeing joined the wings and fuselage for the first 767-2C to be adapted into a KC-46A.[45] The first of four 767-2C provision freighters were to complete assembly by the end of January 2014. Once assembled, it would go through ground vibration and instrumentation testing and have body fuel tanks added. The first test flight would occur during summer 2014 and include measuring its rate of climb and descent. The Engineering Manufacturing and Design (EMD) model was to be integrated with the needed systems and technologies to become a military-standard KC-46A by January 2015. Seven low-rate production KC-46s were to be delivered in 2015, 12 in 2016, and 15 delivered annually from 2017 to 2027.[46] The last of four test aircraft began assembly in January 2014.[47]
In April 2014, the GAO found that the KC-46 program was projected to underrun its projected cost estimate of $51.7 billion by $300 million. The program acquisition unit cost per jet will be $287 million, $1.8 million less than estimated. The GAO noted that delays in training air crew and maintainers could cause testing to slip 6–12 months, but stated that the program had not missed any major milestones and that the development of about 15.8 million lines of software code was progressing as planned.[48] In May 2014, the USAF estimated the development program's cost, including the first four aircraft, could rise from $4.4–4.9 billion to $5.85 billion.[49]
In July 2014, Boeing recorded a $272 million pre-tax charge to cover the tanker's wiring redesign.[50][51] The wiring issue arose when it was found that 5-10% of the wiring bundles did not have sufficient separation distance or were not properly shielded to meet a USAF requirement for double or triple-redundant wiring for some mission systems. In September 2014, it was confirmed that the wiring redesign would delay the first 767-2C flight from June 2014 to November 2014.[52][53] In March 2015, the program cost to develop and procure 179 tankers was projected to total US$43.16 billion (~$54.2 billion in 2023).[54]
Flight tests and delays
editThe 767-2C's first flight took place on 28 December 2014. It flew from Paine Field and landed at Boeing Field.[55][56] In March 2015, a refueling test with a C-17 transport was stopped because of a higher-than-expected boom axial load while delivering fuel. The problem was caused by the turbulent "bow wave effect" generated by two large aircraft flying in line.[57][58][59] In January 2016, the KC-46 successfully refueled an F-16 for the first time during a five hour 36 minute sortie. Test refueling of several other military aircraft followed, including a C-17, F/A-18, A-10, and AV-8B.[60] In February 2016, a KC-46 refueled an F/A-18, using its probe-and-drogue system for the first time.[61]
In July 2015, Boeing announced a further $835 million (~$1.05 billion in 2023) pretax charge for the faulty integrated fuel system's redesign and retrofit.[62] Wiring and fuel system flaws could delay contracts worth $3 billion for up to eight months. Following schedule revisions agreed by the USAF and Boeing, the first flight of a fully equipped KC-46 was delayed to as late as September 2015.[63] The Bank of America/Merrill Lynch noted in July 2015 "We fail to understand how Boeing could take a $1.26 billion (~$1.58 billion in 2023) pre-tax charge (since it won the contract over Airbus) on the Boeing KC-46A program since the program is based on the 767 airframe that has been in production for over 30 years."[64]
In March 2016, the Defense Contract Management Agency reportedly had low confidence in the August 2017 deadline, predicting the first 18 tankers' delivery to run about seven months late based on past performance and current risks, such as production delays, a new joint USAF-Boeing schedule review, and flight test uncertainties. The Pentagon's test office was to start combat testing in April 2017.[65]
An April 2016 GAO report projected an additional four months beyond the August 2017 target to deliver 18 KC-46s, and that operational testing will not begin until May 2017 and will not be completed until two months after delivery of the first 18 aircraft, risking late discoveries of problems. The GAO noted that Boeing had not obtained Federal Aviation Administration's approval for two key aerial refueling systems—the centerline drogue system and the wing aerial refueling pods, which were built without following FAA processes—Boeing projected readiness for FAA certification by July 2017, over three years late.[66] The 18 KC-46s were to include the four EMD aircraft raised to operational standards, plus the first 14 low-rate production tankers. Instead, 16 of the 18 were off the production line. Boeing was liable for all late design fixes on tankers delivered before testing ended.[67]
In April 2016, the fourth test aircraft, 767-2C EMD-3, first flew. EMD-3 focused on environmental control systems, including temperature and smoke penetration testing.[68] Two days later, Boeing took another pre-tax charge of $243 million for cost overruns, bringing the total amount paid for tanker cost overruns to $1.5 billion. Boeing president and chief executive Dennis Muilenburg stated that 80% of the test points required for a positive Milestone C decision had been completed.[69] Flight testing helped determine whether a refueling fault could be resolved by either software or hardware changes, which Boeing worked on in parallel.[70]
In May 2016, a further delay of at least six months due to technical and supply chain issues was reported, potentially requiring program re-structuring and cuts. At the time, only 20% of the flight tests were completed.[71] In June 2016, USAF spokesman Maj. Rob Leese confirmed that, while the contract with Boeing lacked predefined delay penalties, not delivering the 18 certified KC-46s by August 2017 is a contract schedule breach, and that the USAF would receive considerations from Boeing in the schedule re-baseline after the RRA delay.[72][73] In July 2016, US Defense Acquisitions Chief Frank Kendall confirmed that the tanker program office was studying the delay's cost to the USAF, and that it was entitled to consideration for losses from operating the KC-135 for longer than planned.[74]
On 8 June 2016, Boeing's defense unit CEO, Leanne Caret, reported that a modified boom would be flown shortly.[75] On 10 July 2016, Caret reported positive results from early flight tests with the revised boom.[74] On 21 July 2016, Boeing took a further $393 million charge on the program, bringing the total value of penalties to almost $1.9 billion. The charge reflected higher costs associated with the schedule and technical challenges, such as the boom axial load issue, delays in the certification process and concurrency between testing and initial production.[76] The initial 18 KC-46s were equipped with the boom and centerline drogue, but not the wing-mounted wing-aerial refueling pods (WARP) needed for full contractual Required Assets Available, they were delivered separately later.[77]
On 5 July 2016, USAF spokesman Daryl Mayer stated that, despite the testing delays, Milestone C approval was expected in the following month, and that Boeing would add a fifth EMD aircraft to accelerate testing. EMD-1 and EMD-3 primarily conducted flight tests towards FAA airworthiness certificates, while EMD-2 and EMD-4 focused on USAF aerial refueling and mission system testing.[78] An F-16 was successfully refueled on 8 July, and a C-17 on 12 July 2016. Once the hardware fix is verified, a KC-46 with the updated boom underwent regression testing on the F-16, followed by refueling demonstrations with the C-17 and A-10 for the final test for Milestone C approval.[79][80] On 15 July 2016, the KC-46 successfully refueled an A-10, offloading 1,500 pounds of fuel at 15,000 feet. At the time, more than 900 flight test hours have been completed by the five EMD aircraft.[81] On 12 August 2016, the program received Milestone C approval, indicating production readiness. The issuing of contracts for two lots covering 19 aircraft was expected within 30 days.[82]
In January 2018, Air Mobility Command stated that tests for final FAA certification were roughly 94 percent complete.[83] Boeing announced its FAA certification in September 2018, with military certification outstanding. Aircraft refueled during testing include the F-16, F/A-18, AV-8B, C-17, A-10, KC-10, KC-135 and the KC-46 itself.[84] In January 2019, a KC-46 from the 418th Flight Test Squadron at Edwards AFB made connection with an F-35A, the occasion being the first time that the KC-46 connected with a fifth-generation jet fighter.[85] Completion of refueling certification of the F-35 by the KC-46 was announced by the 412th Test Wing in June 2019.[86]
In March 2020, the USAF announced that chronic leaks in the fuel system had been upgraded to a Category I deficiency. The USAF identified the issue in June 2019, but had not originally believed it to be serious. Crews became aware of the issue when they discovered fuel between the primary and secondary fuel protection barriers. There was no known root cause at the time of the announcement.[87] By January 2021, Boeing's losses on the program were estimated at $5 billion (~$5.55 billion in 2023).[88] At the time, it was expected that the KC-46 would not be combat ready until at least late 2023.[89]
Design
editThe KC-46 Pegasus is a variant of the Boeing 767 and is a widebody, low-wing cantilever monoplane with a conventional empennage featuring a single fin and rudder. It has a retractable tricycle landing gear and a hydraulic flight control system. The Pegasus is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW4062 engines, one mounted under each wing. It has been described as combining "the 767-200ER's fuselage, with the 767-300F's wing, gear, cargo door and floor, with the 767-400ER digital flightdeck and flaps".[90] (The displays actually look like those of the 787). The KC-46 uses a similar Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS) to that implicated in two 737 MAX crashes; in March 2019, the USAF began reviewing KC-46 training due to this feature. Unlike the 737, the KC-46's MCAS takes input from dual redundant angle of attack sensors and disengages with stick input by the pilot.[91]
The flightdeck has room for a crew of four with a forward crew compartment with seats for 15 crew members and in the rear fuselage either palletized passenger seating for 58, or 18 pallets in cargo configuration. The rear compartment can also be used in an aero-medical configuration for 54 patients (24 on litters).[92] Quick ingress from the ground is available via a ladder that can be pulled down near the front landing gear.[93] The KC-46A can carry 212,299 lb (96,297 kg) of fuel,[94] 10 percent more than the KC-135, and 65,000 lb (29,000 kg) of cargo. Survivability is improved with infrared countermeasures and the aircraft has limited electronic warfare capabilities.[46] It uses manual flight controls, allowing unrestricted maneuverability to avoid threats anywhere in the flight envelope.[95]
At the rear of the KC-46 is a fly-by-wire refueling boom supplemented by wing air refueling pods at each wingtip and a centerline drogue system under the rear fuselage so it can handle both types of refueling in one mission.[92] The boom includes a hydraulic relief valve system, similar to those on the KC-10 and KC-767 tankers, to relieve axial pressure in the event of excessive loads building up on the boom.[75] In order to address the stiff boom issue, which keeps a KC-46 from refueling lightweight, thrust-limited receivers like the A-10, Boeing is replacing the current actuator with one using a pressure-flow PQ valve in the 2023 time frame.[96]
Rather than using a single boom operator seated or prone at the tail looking out a window, the Aerial Refueling Operator Station (AROS) seats two operators at the front of the tanker. AROS includes three main displays for each operator to display images from multiple multi-spectral cameras distributed around the aircraft. The central 2D/3D display provides a rear-facing view for boom refueling operations. Boom operators can execute their mission in total darkness with both aircraft blacked out.[97] The hybrid 2D-3D system requires stereoscopic glasses to be fully effective.[97]
The Remote Vision System (RVS) that feeds video to the AROS has been problematic, motion viewed in the RVS versus which can create a depth compression and curvature effect.[97] Blackouts and washouts on the displays during refueling, caused by shadows or direct sunlight are a problem that will be fixed by the RVS 2.0 upgrade along with depth perception issues via the use of new cameras and a full-color high-definition screen. Experienced boom operators of older tankers still prefer the KC-46, even with its current drawbacks.[98]
Operational history
editUnited States
editIn April 2014, the USAF announced that the KC-46 will be based at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas, with an optimistic expectation of receiving the first of 36 tankers in 2016.[99][100] McConnell AFB was chosen because it had low construction costs and it is in a location with a high demand for air refueling, having KC-135s based there. In addition to McConnell AFB serving as the home base, up to 10 operating bases will be used by the KC-46. Crews will be trained at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, which was also chosen for its limited construction needs and for its existing experience with training programs for the C-17 Globemaster and the KC-135.[101]
In October 2015, the USAF announced that Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina, was chosen as the preferred alternative for the first Reserve-led KC-46A main operating base, with an anticipated arrival of the KC-46As at Seymour Johnson in fiscal year 2019. Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma; Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts; and Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana, were named as the reasonable alternatives. The October 2015 announcement also stated that the USAF intended to initiate an Environmental Impact Analysis Process (EIAP), which the USAF would use to make its final basing decisions.[102]
On 10 January 2019, the USAF took delivery of the first KC-46, well past the original 2016 delivery date, albeit with two issues outstanding and funds withheld.[103] The two outstanding issues were inadequate boom pressure when refueling the A-10 and glare induced distortion under certain conditions in the remote vision system (RVS). The USAF acknowledged that they failed to give Boeing adequate specifications for the A-10.[104] At milestone C, Boeing gave the USAF a boom design that used the international standard of 1400 lbs of thrust resistance, which they accepted, but the A-10 is only able to generate 650 lbs.[105]
On 25 January 2019, the 22d Air Refueling Wing at McConnell AFB received its first two KC-46As (15-46009 and 17-46031).[106] In February 2019, the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus AFB received its first KC-46.[107]
In April 2019, it was confirmed that the USAF halted all deliveries on 23 March and until further notification, as loose material and debris were found in planes already delivered.[108]
In August 2019, the 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease Air National Guard Base received its first KC-46A.[109]
In September 2019, the USAF restricted the KC-46 from carrying cargo and passengers due to an issue with the floor cargo locks unlocking mid-flight.[110] A fix was approved by the USAF in November 2019 and were retrofitted upon delivered aircraft.[111] By 20 December 2019, four KC-46As had received new cargo locks and the USAF had closed the Category 1 deficiency and cleared retrofitted aircraft for cargo and passenger operations.[112]
In June 2020, the 916th Air Refueling Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base received its first KC-46A.[113] By January 2021, Boeing had delivered 42 KC-46As to the USAF and was on contract for 94 tankers.[114]
In early 2021, the USAF cleared the KC-46 for limited operational use. The type can conduct U.S.-based refueling only, requiring other tankers for deployments to combat areas. At the time, the KC-46 could refuel the B-52, F-15, F-16, and F/A-18, but it was not approved to service the A-10, F-22, F-35, B-1, or B-2. It was expected to be fully combat-ready by 2023.[115][116][117]
During September 2022, the USAF approved the KC-46 for general operational use, closing out a 15-month evaluation period.[118]
Export bids
editJapan
editThe Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) operates four of the earlier Boeing KC-767 tankers that were delivered from 2008 to 2010.[119] In October 2015, Japan selected the KC-46, with a contract for three tankers expected in 2016.[120] The decision allows for common operations and training with the USAF. Japan was reportedly attracted to its capability to refuel MV-22 Osprey tiltrotors, which the JASDF is to receive. Airbus declined to bid its A330 MRTT as they viewed Japan's request for proposals as intended for the KC-46.[121][122]
The three tankers are to be fielded around 2020 at a cost of more than ¥20.8 billion, about US$173 million (~$201 million in 2023) per aircraft.[121][122] An order for a third and fourth KC-46 was placed in October 2020.[123] Japan ordered two additional KC-46s in December 2022, bringing Japan's order total to six.[124] In February 2021, the JASDF conducted its first KC-46 flight.[125] Training of Japanese KC-46 pilots began in June 2021 and Japan received its first KC-46 in November 2021.[126]
India
editIn January 2018, the Indian Air Force re-launched its air-to-air refueling procurement program, and sent out a request for information for six refueling aircraft to Airbus, Boeing and Ilyushin, to which Boeing could respond with an offer for the KC-46 Pegasus.[127] Airbus and Boeing responded to the request for information, while Ilyushin was disqualified as the official requirement is for an aircraft with two turbofan engines.[128]
In April 2022, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced that it had entered into an MoU agreement with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert passenger aircraft into multi-mission tanker transport (MMTT) aircraft in India.[129]
Indonesia
editIn January 2018, Indonesian Air Force officials were reported as saying they were studying both the Airbus A330 MRTT and KC-46 tankers for a future modernization program, expected to take place after the current Airbus A400M Atlas program completes. The Indonesian Air Force is said to compare the tankers on compatibility with the force's current aircraft, life-cycle costs, interoperability with current and future assets, and potential funding and technology transfer options with state-owned aircraft manufacturer Indonesian Aerospace.[130]
Israel
editIn March 2020, the State Department approved the Foreign Military Sale to Israel of eight KC-46s and related equipment for a cost of $2.4 billion (~$2.78 billion in 2023).[131] In February 2022, the United States and Israel signed an agreement to supply KC-46s to replace the aging fleet of Israeli tankers.[132] In September 2022, Boeing announced Israel has purchased four KC-46s for delivery in 2025.[133] The contract includes provisions to enable Israel to potentially purchase a further four KC-46s.[134]
Italy
editIn November 2022, it was reported that Italy is negotiating the purchase of six KC-46s, to be designated KC-767B by Italy, after deciding to forgo modernization work on the current fleet of four KC-767As. The purchase could include logistics support for the KC-46A fleet for a period of five years. The total cost of the contract could be approximately €1.12 billion. Italy's four KC-767As would be sold to Boeing.[135][136]
Failed bids
editCanada
editIn February 2017, Boeing stated it would bid the KC-46A for the Royal Canadian Air Force's Strategic Tanker Transport Capability competition, which is to replace Canada's fleet of CC-150 Polaris tankers. The contract is valued at C$1.5+ billion.[137] In April 2021, Airbus Defence and Space and their submission of the A330 MRTT was deemed to be the only qualified bidder to replace the CC-150.[138]
Korea
editIn June 2014, Boeing submitted the KC-46 for the Republic of Korea Air Force's requirement for four aerial tankers. The KC-46 competed with the Airbus A330 MRTT.[139] South Korea selected the Airbus A330 MRTT in June 2015.[140]
Poland
editBoeing pitched the KC-46 to the Polish Air Force for its tanker requirement.[141] In December 2014, Airbus was awarded a contract for four A330 MRTTs from a consortium of Poland, the Netherlands, and Norway.[142][143]
United Arab Emirates
editIn May 2019, according to Boeing, the United Arab Emirates made a formal request to procure three KC-46As.[144][145] In November 2021 the United Arab Emirates ordered two more Airbus A330 MRTTs for a total of five.[146]
Operators
edit- Israeli Air Force - 4 aircraft on order,[147] out of 8 planned[148]
- United States Air Force - 77 aircraft delivered[151][152][153]
- Air Force Materiel Command
- 412th Test Wing - Edwards AFB, California
- Air Education and Training Command
- Air Mobility Command
- 6th Air Mobility Wing
- 911th Air Refueling Squadron – Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina (Active Duty Associate to the 916 ARW)[citation needed]
- 22d Air Refueling Wing – McConnell AFB, Kansas
- 60th Air Mobility Wing - Travis AFB, California
- 305th Air Mobility Wing - McGuire AFB, New Jersey
- 6th Air Mobility Wing
- Air Force Reserve Command
- Air National Guard
- Air Force Materiel Command
Specifications
editData from USAF KC-46A,[94] Boeing KC-767,[154] Boeing 767-200ER[155]
General characteristics
- Crew: 3 (2 pilots, 1 boom operator) basic crew; 15 permanent seats for additional/optional air crew members, including aeromedical evacuation crew members
- Capacity: seating for up to 114 people, 18 463L pallets, or 58 patients (24 litters, 34 ambulatory) and 65,000 lb (29,500 kg) payload
- Length: 165 ft 6 in (50.5 m)
- Wingspan: 157 ft 8 in (48.1 m)
- Height: 52 ft 1 in (15.9 m)
- Empty weight: 181,610 lb (82,377 kg)
- Max takeoff weight: 415,000 lb (188,240 kg)
- Fuel Capacity: 212,299 lb (96,297 kg)
Fuel Capacity (vol): 31,220 US gal (118,200 L)
Maximum Transfer Fuel Load: 207,672 lb (94,198 kg) - Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney PW4062 turbofan, 62,000[154] lbf (280 kN) thrust each
Performance
- Maximum speed: 570 mph (914 km/h, 500 kn)
- Cruise speed: 530 mph (851 km/h, 460 kn)
- Range: 7,350 mi (11,830 km, 6,385 nmi) ; global with in flight refueling[154]
- Service ceiling: 40,100 ft (12,200 m)
See also
editRelated development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era
- Airbus A310 MRTT
- Airbus A330 MRTT
- Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker
- EADS/Northrop Grumman KC-45
- McDonnell Douglas KC-10 Extender
Related lists
References
edit- ^ "KC-46A cleared for worldwide deployments following first combat refuel". 20 September 2022.
- ^ "Air Mobility Command approves KC-46A Pegasus for worldwide deployments following first combat refuel". 22 September 2022.
- ^ "Orders & Deliveries". Boeing. Retrieved 12 October 2023.
- ^ "U.S. Air Force Accepts First Boeing KC-46A Pegasus Tanker Aircraft" (Press release). Boeing. 10 January 2019. Archived from the original on 10 January 2019. Retrieved 10 January 2019.
- ^ "Model Designation of Military Aerospace Vehicles" (PDF). Executive Services Directorate. 12 May 2004. Archived (PDF) from the original on 15 November 2023.
- ^ Tirpak, John A. (1 August 2003). "100 Tankers". Air & Space Forces Magazine. Archived from the original on 28 May 2023.
- ^ Tirpak, John A. (1 February 2004). "Tanker Twilight Zone". Air & Space Forces Magazine. Archived from the original on 21 April 2023.
- ^ Lunsford, J. Lynn; Jaffe, Greg (7 November 2003). "Pentagon Sets Compromise On Boeing Tanker-Lease Deal". The Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on 10 January 2024. Retrieved 10 January 2004.
- ^ Cahlink, George (1 October 2004). "Ex-Pentagon procurement executive gets jail time". Govexec.com. Archived from the original on 8 November 2022. Retrieved 21 December 2006.
- ^ Majumdar, Dave (24 February 2011). "Boeing wins KC-X tanker battle". Air Force Times. Archived from the original on 21 July 2012.
- ^ "Northrop Grumman KC-30 marketing web site". Archived from the original on 30 January 2009.
- ^ Air Force Posts KC-X Request for Proposals Archived 15 February 2007 at the Wayback Machine. USAF, 30 January 2007.
- ^ Evens, Ben and Daly, Matthew (AP), "Northrop-EADS threatens to withdraw bid for US Air Force contract leaving only Boeing". Aerotech News and Review, 2 February 2007.
- ^ Borak, D. "Boeing Unveils Air Force Tanker in $40 Billion Contract Competition" Archived 24 May 2011 at the Wayback Machine. Associated Press. 12 February 2007.
- ^ "Why the 767?" Archived 29 April 2011 at the Wayback Machine Air Force magazine, 13 February 2007.
- ^ "Boeing Submits KC-767 Advanced Tanker Proposal to U.S. Air Force" Archived 21 May 2007 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing, 11 April 2007.
- ^ "Boeing Offers KC-767 Advanced Tanker to U.S. Air Force" Archived 14 February 2007 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing, 12 February 2007.
- ^ "Size matters in US Air Force KC-X contest". Flightglobal. 21 January 2008. Archived from the original on 4 November 2012.
- ^ "Boeing Submits Final KC-767 Advanced Tanker Proposal to U.S. Air Force" Archived 28 June 2011 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing, 3 January 2008.
- ^ Butler, Amy, Fulghum, Davis A and Wall, Robert. "Northrop/EADS Clinches U.S. Refueler Deal". Aviation Week, 29 February 2008.
- ^ a b "GAO backs Boeing tanker protest". King-TV. 18 June 2008. Archived from the original on 29 December 2008.
- ^ "Air Force to Reopen Bidding on Tanker Contract" Archived 1 February 2016 at the Wayback Machine. New York Times, 10 July 2008.
- ^ Kruzel, John J. "Pentagon Reopens Bidding on Tanker Contract" Archived 15 August 2008 at the Wayback Machine. US DoD, 9 July 2008.
- ^ "Pentagon Issues New Tanker Bid Parameters". Aviation Week, 6 August 2008.
- ^ "DoD Announces Termination of KC-X Tanker Solicitation" Archived 13 September 2008 at the Wayback Machine. US DoD, 10 September 2008.
- ^ Cole, August; Sanders, Peter (25 September 2009). "Air Force Resumes Tanker Contest". Wall Street Journal. Archived from the original on 23 January 2016.
- ^ "Boeing to Offer NewGen Tanker to US Air Force" Archived 14 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing, 4 March 2010.
- ^ "EADS Re-Enters Tanker Bidding" Archived 26 March 2018 at the Wayback Machine. Wall Street Journal, 21 April 2010.
- ^ Butler, Amy. "Northrop Grumman Officially Out of KC-X"[dead link]. Aviation Week, 9 March 2010.
- ^ Trimble, Stephen (9 July 2010). "USAF receives three proposals for KC-X, but Antonov team admits concerns". Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 13 July 2010.
- ^ Warwick, Graham. "Boeing Wins Restaged U.S. Air Force KC-X Tanker"[dead link]. Aviation Week, 25 February 2011.
- ^ Trimble, Stephen (29 September 2010). "Boeing source reveals specifications for KC-767 NewGen Tanker". Flight International. Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 2 October 2010.
- ^ Gates, Dominic. "Boeing, EADS Submit Final Bids For Air Force Tanker Contract" Archived 17 March 2011 at the Wayback Machine. Seattle Times, 11 February 2011.
- ^ "What's Next: USAF Lays Groundwork To Replace Fighter, Tanker Fleets". Defense news, 14 September 2014
- ^ On to the Stealthy KC-Z Archived 12 October 2016 at the Wayback Machine - Airforcemag.com, 21 September 2016.
- ^ Trimble, Stephen (24 February 2011). "USAF selects Boeing for KC-X contract". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 5 November 2012. Retrieved 24 February 2011.
- ^ "Boeing Wins $35B Air Force Tanker Deal" Archived 30 October 2014 at the Wayback Machine. Bloomberg, 24 February 2011.
- ^ "Boeing Receives US Air Force Contract to Build Next-Generation Refueling Tanker" (press release). Boeing. 24 February 2011. Archived from the original on 28 February 2011.
- ^ Cappacio, Tony. "Boeing projected to face $300 million overrun on tanker contract". The Seattle Times. NW source. Archived from the original on 2 July 2011. Retrieved 29 June 2011.
- ^ Butler, Amy (29 June 2011). "Boeing Liable For KC-46 Overage". Aviation Week. Retrieved 29 July 2011.[dead link]
- ^ Weisgerber, Marcus. "Boeing Lowers KC-46 Cost Estimate". Defense News, 27 July 2011.
- ^ "Air Force increases projected KC-46 flying hours, crew ratio". Global security. 5 February 2013. Archived from the original on 1 February 2014. Retrieved 6 February 2013.
- ^ Majumdar, Dave (4 September 2013). "USAF and Boeing complete KC-46 critical design review". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 27 September 2013. Retrieved 5 September 2013.
- ^ "US Air Force, Boeing Finalize KC-46A Tanker Aircraft Design." Archived 8 September 2013 at the Wayback Machine Boeing news release, 4 September 2013.
- ^ "Boeing Joins First KC-46A Airframe". Aviation Week. 12 December 2013.[permanent dead link]
- ^ a b "First KC-46A Baseline Test Aircraft Due This Month" Archived 15 January 2014 at the Wayback Machine. DoDBuzz.com, 12 January 2014
- ^ Hemmerdinger, Jon (16 January 2014). "Boeing assembles final KC-46A test aircraft". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 20 January 2014.
- ^ "KC-46 on the Money". Air Force mag. 11 April 2014. Archived from the original on 13 April 2014.
- ^ Cameron, Doug. "Boeing takes hit for tanker troubles"[dead link]. Wall Street Journal, 24 July 2014, p. B2.
- ^ "Boeing Reports Second-Quarter Results and Raises 2014 EPS Guidance" Archived 30 July 2014 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing, 23 July 2014.
- ^ Trimble, Stephen (23 July 2014). "Boeing reports KC-46A loss, rejects wider concerns". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 31 October 2014.
- ^ Everstine, Brian (16 September 2014). "First Flight for KC-46 Tanker Platform Slips Further". Aviation Week. Penton. Archived from the original on 31 October 2014. Retrieved 12 September 2014.
- ^ Everstine, Brian (16 September 2014). "First flight delayed for KC-46A test aircraft". airforcetimes.com. Gannett. Archived from the original on 16 September 2014.
- ^ "GAO-15-342SP DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS Assessments of Selected Weapon Programs" (PDF). US Government Accountability Office. March 2015. p. 103. Archived (PDF) from the original on 24 September 2015.
- ^ Norris, Guy (29 December 2014). "Boeing 767-2C First Flight Begins Tanker Test Campaign". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 10 June 2015.
- ^ Daryl Mayer (28 December 2014). "Boeing completes successful first flight in KC-46 program". 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs. Archived from the original on 1 February 2016.
- ^ Drew, James (4 April 2016). "Boeing's KC-46 test run complicated by C-17 refuelling issue". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 15 April 2016.
- ^ "Air Force: Boeing Tanker Issue Could Delay Production Decision". Defense News. 1 April 2016.
- ^ Shalal, Andrea (1 April 2016). "Boeing tanker issue may delay U.S. production decision". St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
- ^ "Boeing, U.S. Air Force Aircrews Make History with First KC-46A Tanker Refueling Flight". Boeing Press Release. 24 January 2016. Archived from the original on 31 January 2016.
- ^ Thulowiet, Kenji (16 February 2016). "KC-46 refuels fighter jet with hose, drogue system for first time". USAF, 412th Test Wing Public Affairs. Archived from the original on 2 March 2016.
- ^ "Supplier Quality Control, Fuel System Integration Haunt KC-46". Aviation Week. 24 July 2015. Archived from the original on 24 July 2015.
- ^ "Boeing Faces Eight-Month Delay on $3 Billion Tanker Contracts". Bloomberg Business. 21 July 2015. Archived from the original on 24 July 2015.
- ^ "Opinion: For Boeing, Big Losses And Missed Opportunities In The Tanker Market: KC-46 Falls Flat In International Market". Aviation Week. 22 July 2015. Archived from the original on 24 July 2015.
- ^ "Boeing Likely to Miss Delivery Date for Tankers, Pentagon Says". Bloomberg.com. Bloomberg. 22 March 2016. Archived from the original on 25 March 2016.
- ^ "Watchdog: Challenges Ahead For Boeing's KC-46 Tanker". Defense News. 11 April 2016.
- ^ Drew, James (12 April 2016). "Boeing's 'optimistic' KC-46 plan delivers 18 tankers in six months". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 25 April 2016.
- ^ "Fourth KC-46 test aircraft completes initial flight". IHS Jane's Defence Weekly. 27 April 2016. Archived from the original on 27 April 2016.
- ^ Drew, James (27 April 2016). "Boeing records $243 million KC-46 charge as it seeks LRIP contract". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 28 April 2016.
- ^ Drew, James (5 May 2016). "KC-46 team working fixes to complete C-17 demo in 'late May'". Washington DC: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 6 May 2016.
- ^ "KC-46A Tanker Program Braces For Another Delay". Aviation Week. 26 May 2016. Archived from the original on 28 May 2016.
- ^ "Boeing's Penalty For Latest KC-46 Delay Still Unclear". Defense News. 2 June 2016.[dead link]
- ^ Drew, James (14 June 2016). "USAF Considering Penalty For Boeing Over KC-46 Delays". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 16 June 2016.
- ^ a b Mehta, Aaron (12 July 2016). "Pentagon Seeks 'Consideration' for KC-46 Tanker Delay". Defense News.
- ^ a b Weisgerber, Marcus (8 June 2016). "Here's How Boeing Aims To Fix Its Broken Tanker". Defense One. Atlantic Media. Archived from the original on 12 June 2016.
- ^ Insinna, Valerie (21 July 2016). "Boeing Racks Up Another $393M In Cost Overruns On KC-46 Program". Defense News.
- ^ "Boeing's KC-46 Tanker Will Miss Major Deadline". Defense News. 27 May 2016.
- ^ Seligman, Lara (5 July 2016). "Boeing KC-46 Tests Moving 'Slower Than Planned'". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 7 July 2016.
- ^ Mehta, Aaron (13 July 2016). "Reworked KC-46 Boom Refuels F-16, C-17". Defense News. Archived from the original on 13 July 2016.
- ^ Seligman, Lara (13 July 2016). "KC-46 Successfully Refuels C-17". Aviation Week. Archived from the original on 15 July 2016.
- ^ Erwin, Sandra (18 July 2016). "Boeing's KC-46 Tanker to Receive Production Green Light". National Defense.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "KC-46a approved for production". U.S. Air Force. Archived from the original on 12 October 2016.
- ^ Panzino, Charlsy (26 January 2018). "The Air Force's KC-46 tanker is almost ready for prime time". Defense News. Archived from the original on 27 January 2018.
- ^ "Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program Completes FAA Certification" (Press release). Boeing. 4 September 2018. Archived from the original on 5 September 2018.
- ^ Thuloweit, Kenji (14 February 2019). "KC-46 Pegasus connects with fifth-generation fighter". Edwards AFB. Archived from the original on 15 February 2019. Retrieved 15 February 2019.
- ^ Casem, Giancarlo (4 June 2019). "KC-46, F-35 completes receiver certification testing". 412th Test Wing. Archived from the original on 5 June 2019. Retrieved 5 June 2019.
- ^ Trevithick, Joseph (30 March 2020). "The Air Force's Troubled KC-46 Tankers Leak Fuel Excessively". thedrive.com. The Drive. Retrieved 31 March 2020.
- ^ Reim, Garrett. "Boeing delivers 14 KC-46A tankers in 2020, receives contract for a dozen more". Flight Global, 13 January 2021.
- ^ Weisgerber, Marcus (1 February 2021). "Air Force Hunts for Ways to Use Not-Quite-Ready Tankers". Defence One.
- ^ Rogoway, Tyler (24 April 2015). "Broken Booms: Why Is It So Hard To Develop & Procure A New USAF Tanker?". Foxtrot Alpha. Jalopnik. Retrieved 23 January 2020.
- ^ "USAF Reviewing Training After MAX 8 Crashes; KC-46 Uses Similar MCAS". airforcemag.com. March 2019. Archived from the original on 23 March 2019.
- ^ a b "KC-46 Pegasus". Boeing. Archived from the original on 6 January 2019. Retrieved 6 January 2019.
- ^ McMenemy, Jeff (15 September 2019). "A look inside the KC-46A". Fosters.com. Archived from the original on 16 September 2019. Retrieved 16 September 2019.
There's also a compartment on the belly of the plane, which can be opened so crew can pull down a ladder, climb up, and quickly board the plane. "If you need to get inside faster you can climb up this ladder, step on a platform, climb up another ladder and end up in the floor of the plane," Zubricki said.
- ^ a b KC-46A Tanker Factsheet Archived 19 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine. U.S. Air Force, February 2016.
- ^ "Boeing to Offer NewGen Tanker to US Air Force" Archived 11 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine. finchannel.com, 5 March 2010.
- ^ Hadley, Greg. (4 Jan 2022) "Boeing Works to Solve KC-46 Deficiencies, One by One". airandspaceforces.com
- ^ a b c "This Is What The Boom Operator's Station On The New KC-46 Tanker Actually Looks Like We finally are getting a good look at the KC-46's most controversial feature". The Drive. 2 April 2019. Retrieved 11 September 2022.
- ^ "KC-46 Boom Operators Learn to Live With RVS Pending 2.0 Upgrade". Air Force Magazine. 9 August 2022. Retrieved 11 September 2022.
- ^ "USAF: McConnell to house next generation tankers" Archived 24 April 2014 at the Wayback Machine. KWCH, 22 April 2014.
- ^ "McConnell gets final OK for refueling tankers, prepares to spend $219 million for construction". Archived 24 April 2014 at the Wayback Machine The Wichita Eagle, 22 April 2014.
- ^ "Altus selected for KC-46A training" Archived 24 April 2014 at the Wayback Machine. Militarytimes.com, 23 April 2014.
- ^ Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs (29 October 2015). "Seymour-Johnson chosen for first Reserve-led KC-46A basing". Air Force Reserve Command. Archived from the original on 26 January 2016.
- ^ "The Air Force finally takes ownership of its first Boeing tanker — with serious misgivings". The Seattle Times. 10 January 2019. Archived from the original on 11 January 2019.
- ^ Thompson, Loren (11 January 2019). "Five Reasons The Air Force Has Begun Taking Delivery Of Boeing's KC-46A Pegasus Tanker". Forbes. Archived from the original on 11 January 2019.
- ^ Insinna, Valerie (10 January 2019). "Boeing delivers first KC-46, but fixes to technical problems still years away". Defense News.
- ^ Slanchik, Michaela R. (25 January 2019). "McConnell AFB welcomes first KC-46A Pegasus". McConnell Air Force Base. Archived from the original on 4 February 2019. Retrieved 3 February 2019.
- ^ Scarle, Kenny (8 February 2019). "Pegasus Wings its Way to 97 AMW". 97 AMW Public Affairs. Archived from the original on 9 February 2019. Retrieved 9 February 2019.
- ^ Pawlyk, Oriana. "Air Force Again Halts KC-46 Tanker Deliveries". Military.com. Archived from the original on 2 April 2019. Retrieved 2 April 2019.
- ^ McMenemy, Jeff (8 August 2019). "First KC-46A tanker arrives at Pease". seacoastonline.com. Retrieved 8 August 2019.
- ^ "US Air Force restricts KC-46 from carrying cargo and passengers". 11 September 2019.
- ^ "Cargo lock fix for KC-46 tanker approved by U.S. Air Force". UPI. Retrieved 13 November 2019.
- ^ Insinna, Valerie (20 December 2019). "The KC-46 is back to carrying cargo and passengers". Defense News.
- ^ "916th Air Refueling Wing Welcomes KC-46A Pegasus". Dobbins Air Reserve Base. 12 June 2020. Retrieved 14 June 2020.
- ^ Reim, Garrett: Boeing wins $2.1bn for 15 more KC-46A tankers, points to battle communications role, Flight Global, 22 January 2021.
- ^ Despite growing pains, KC-46 tanker will begin 'limited operations'. Defense News. 25 February 2021.
- ^ Air Mobility Command to Start Integrating KC-46 Into Limited Operations. Air Force Magazine. 24 February 2021.
- ^ Air Force clears KC-46A for limited, non-combat refueling. United Press International. 25 February 2021.
- ^ Air Mobility Command Public Affairs (19 September 2022). "KC-46A cleared for worldwide deployments following first combat refuel". Air Mobility Command, United States Air Force. Retrieved 21 September 2022.
- ^ "Boeing Delivers 4th KC-767 Tanker to Japan Ministry of Defense" (Press release). Boeing. 12 January 2010.
- ^ 新たな空中給油・輸送機の機種決定について [Decision on the model of new aerial refueling and transport aircraft]. Ministry of Defense (Japan) (in Japanese). 23 October 2015. Archived from the original on 22 March 2017.
- ^ a b Drew, James (23 October 2015). "Japan chooses Boeing KC-46, halting Airbus tanker winning streak". Flightglobal. Washington DC. Archived from the original on 25 October 2015.
- ^ a b Yeo, Mike (4 September 2019). "Japan seeks improved aerial refueling, military transport capabilities in KC-46 funding request". Defense News. Melbourne, Australia.
- ^ "Japan orders two more KC-46A tanker planes". UPI. Retrieved 30 October 2020.
- ^ Insight, Global Defense (30 November 2022). "Japan Orders Two More Boeing KC-46A Tankers". Global Defense Insight. Retrieved 4 December 2022.
- ^ "First Japan Air Self-Defense Force Boeing KC-46 tanker takes flight". Air Recognition. 10 February 2021.
- ^ "Program Profile Boeing KC-46". Aviation Week. Retrieved 7 October 2022.
- ^ Raghuvanshi, Vivek (26 January 2018). "Third time's the charm? India again attempts to buy midair refuelers". Defense News. New Delhi. Archived from the original on 27 January 2018. Retrieved 27 January 2018.
- ^ Joshi, Saurabh (15 February 2018). "Boeing KC-46, Airbus A330 MRTT in IAF tanker contest". StratPost. New Delhi. Archived from the original on 17 February 2018. Retrieved 17 February 2018.
- ^ Shukla, Ajai (7 April 2022). "HAL, Israel Aerospace tie up to turn civil aircraft into mid-air refuellers". Business Standard India.
- ^ Rahmat, Ridzwan (18 January 2018). "Indonesia puts KC-46A Pegasus, Airbus A330 in frame for aerial tanker requirement". IHS Jane's 360. Singapore. Archived from the original on 19 January 2018. Retrieved 19 January 2018.
- ^ "Israel – KC-46A Aerial Refueling Aircraft". Defense Security Cooperation Agency (dsca.mil). Retrieved 4 March 2020.
- ^ "A Look Back At Tankers" (PDF). U.S Department of Defense. Retrieved 25 April 2024.
- ^ Williams, Dan (1 September 2022). "Eye on Iran, Israel to buy four Boeing air force tankers for $927 million". Reuters. Retrieved 1 September 2022.
- ^ Frantzman, Seth (1 September 2022). "Israel, Boeing agree to $927M deal for four KC-46A tankers". Defense News. Retrieved 6 August 2023.
- ^ Dubois, Gastón (3 November 2022). "Italy is negotiating the purchase of six Boeing KC-46A tankers". Aviacionline.com (in Spanish). Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ Cenciotti, David (3 November 2022). "Italy Will Buy Six KC-46 Tankers To Replace Its KC-767As". The Aviationist. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ "Boeing to bid KC-46 on future RCAF tanker program - Skies Mag". Archived from the original on 3 February 2017. Retrieved 3 February 2017.
- ^ Pugliese, David (1 April 2021). "Airbus deemed only qualified supplier for new RCAF refueling and VIP aircraft". Ottawa Citizen. Retrieved 9 April 2021.
- ^ Hoyle, Craig (30 June 2014). "Boeing offers KC-46 for South Korea tanker requirement". London: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 13 July 2014. Retrieved 30 June 2014.
- ^ "South Korea Selects Airbus for $1.33B Tanker Contract". Defense News. 30 June 2015. Archived from the original on 8 July 2015. Retrieved 30 June 2015.
- ^ Perry, Dominic (3 September 2014). "Boeing eyes Poland as first KC-46A export buyer". Warsaw: Flightglobal. Archived from the original on 4 September 2014. Retrieved 3 September 2014.
- ^ "Airbus leaps ahead of Boeing in race for airborne tanker exports". Puget Sound Business Journal. 24 December 2014. Archived from the original on 26 December 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
- ^ "European Partners Opt for Airbus Military Tanker". The Wall Street Journal. 19 December 2014. Archived from the original on 20 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
- ^ Yeo, Mike (31 May 2019). "UAE issues formal request to buy KC-46A tanker, says Boeing". Defense News. Singapore. Archived from the original on 31 May 2019. Retrieved 31 May 2019.
- ^ McGinley, Shane (2 June 2019). "UAE submits request to buy three Boeing tanker aircraft". Arabian Business. Retrieved 6 September 2019.
- ^ "United Arab Emirates orders two additional Airbus A330 MRTT". airbus.com. 14 November 2021. Retrieved 15 March 2023.
- ^ Gross, Judah Ari. "Ministers sign off on pricey purchase of F-35s, refuelers and bombs". www.timesofisrael.com. Retrieved 16 February 2021.
- ^ "In first, US to sell new aerial re-fuelling planes to Israel". 19 June 2019.
- ^ "Japan orders two more Boeing KC-46 Pegasus tankers - AeroTime". 2 December 2022. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ "Japan to acquire two additional KC-46 tankers". Janes.com. December 2022. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ Boeing Defense [@BoeingDefense] (9 November 2021). "Twin tanker takeoffs! The first two #KC46 for @jointbasemdl have departed Boeing Field. These are the 49th and 50th KC-46 deliveries to the @usairforce. https://t.co/UYMr15tEEj" (Tweet). Archived from the original on 9 November 2021. Retrieved 21 December 2021 – via Twitter.
- ^ Boeing Defense [@BoeingDefense] (20 May 2022). "Two more #KC46 tankers are in the air! Today's deliveries to @JointBaseMDL and @22ARW mark 59 KC-46 aircraft in service for the @USAirForce. Airmen are enabling global reach and rapid mobility, and we're proud to support them. https://t.co/jckIIgf30c" (Tweet). Retrieved 14 December 2022 – via Twitter.
- ^ Boeing Defense (1 December 2023). "December delivery day". X (formerly Twitter). Retrieved 17 December 2023.
- ^ a b c KC-767 Advanced Tanker product card (archive copy), KC-767 International Tanker backgrounder Archived 12 August 2011 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing.
- ^ 767-200ER specifications Archived 16 February 2013 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing.
External links
edit- Official website
- Boeing.com Feature story on KC-46A contract award
- "KC-46A approved for production". Secretary of the Air Force for Public Affairs. 12 August 2016. Retrieved 19 August 2016.