U.S. Air Force Confirms Purchase of More KC-46 Tankers from Boeing, Skips New Competition
The United States Air Force (USAF) has approved an acquisition strategy to incorporate up to 75 additional KC-46A Pegasus tankers, manufactured by Boeing. This decision aims to provide continuity in its fleet modernization without initiating a new bidding process.
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The United States Air Force will proceed with the acquisition of the Boeing KC-46A Pegasus for the next phase of its tanker fleet recapitalization, a decision that solidifies the aircraft's role despite the technical challenges the program has experienced. The recently confirmed measure includes the purchase of up to 75 additional units once deliveries from the original contract are completed.
An Air Force spokesperson stated that "the Air Force approved an acquisition strategy to extend KC-46A production by up to 75 aircraft." This initiative, known as the "KC-46A Production Extension Program," primarily aims to ensure an "uninterrupted recapitalization of the KC-135 aircraft," as reported by specialized outlets such as Defense One and Air & Space Forces Magazine.
The decision not to open a new competition for a "Bridge Tanker" is largely based on budgetary considerations. The fiscal year 2026 budget documents identify the KC-46A as the "most affordable requirements basis" for this extension effort, thus avoiding the research and development costs that a new competitive program would entail.
The original KC-46 program, which covers a total of 188 aircraft after an extension from the initial 179-plane contract, is nearing completion. The new acquisition will commence after the delivery of the final aircraft under the current agreement, expected around the end of the decade.
Frequently Asked Questions (Snippet / People Also Ask)
Why is the USAF buying more KC-46s despite their issues? The USAF prioritizes continuity in modernizing its aging KC-135 Stratotanker fleet. Continuing with KC-46 production is the most economical and fastest option, as it avoids the costs and delays of a new competition program, ensuring the production line remains active.
How many KC-46s will the Air Force have in total? With the addition of the 75 extra aircraft, the total planned fleet of KC-46A Pegasus for the USAF will increase to 263 planes.
What problems does the KC-46 have? The program has faced notable deficiencies, mainly with its Remote Vision System (RVS), which is crucial for refueling operations. Although an improved version (RVS 2.0) is in the works, the initial problems caused financial losses for Boeing under the fixed-price contract.
Despite the Air Force's vote of confidence, the KC-46 Pegasus has not been without difficulties. The program experienced cost overruns and delays, largely due to deficiencies with the aforementioned Remote Vision System. These issues, which affected operators' ability to safely maneuver the refueling boom, forced Boeing to absorb billions of dollars in costs under the terms of the fixed-price development contract.
Nevertheless, the USAF and Boeing are making progress in resolving these deficiencies. The aircraft was cleared for worldwide operational deployments in September 2022 and is already participating in combat missions, supplementing other tanker aircraft in service.
This bridge purchase secures the workload for Boeing's production line in Everett, Washington, and serves as a link to the future Next-Generation Air-refueling System (NGAS), a program that envisions an aircraft with more advanced and potentially stealthy capabilities, adapted to future conflict scenarios.
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