By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
The United States Air Force has recently taken delivery of two additional KC-46A Pegasus refueling aircraft, bringing its total fleet to 84. The delivery of the 21st and 22nd KC-46 aircraft to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) marks a significant milestone in the US Air Force’s modernization efforts.
The KC-46’s importance in maintaining the strategic role of JBMDL was emphasized by Senator Bob Menendez, who stated, “Hosting the KC-46 secures this Joint Base’s poasition as the indisputable East Coast hub for aerial refueling, extending the Air Force’s global reach.” The addition of these tankers shows the Air Force strategy to enhance its aerial refueling capabilities till the Next-Generation Air Refueling System (NGAS) becomes operational in the mid-to-late 2030s.
The transaction was spotlighted on Boeing’s social media, noting the deployment of these aircraft to McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey. As of May 31, this base now commands a fleet of 22 Pegasus tankers, integral to the operations of the 305th and 514th Air Mobility Wings—the latter being a component of the USAF Reserve Command.
This delivery from Boeing is part of a broader acquisition trend, underscored by a recent $2.3 billion contract for an additional 15 KC-46As signed in late November 2023. This ongoing influx of new tankers is pivotal as the Air Force seeks not only to replace aging fleets but also to enhance operational efficiency and capability with modern technology.
According to James Burgess, vice president and KC-46 program manage, he stated that “This upgrade demonstrates long-term investment from Boeing and the Air Force,” In addition, he also made it known that the KC-46A is built to integrate cutting-edge capabilities directly into the fibre of the aircraft as the needs of the mission evolve.
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Furthermore, the global interest in the KC-46A extends beyond the United States. Notable orders include those from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and upcoming deliveries to the Israeli Air Force, scheduled to begin receiving its first of four ordered Pegasus aircraft in the first half of 2025. Meanwhile, discussions are underway with the Italian Air Force for a potential order of six aircraft. These would replace their fleet of Boeing 767-200 ER, which, interestingly, were civilian aircraft converted for military use after serving TAP Air Portugal since 1992.
The KC-46A boasts a advanced refueling system, capable of transferring fuel at the speed of 1,200 gallons per minute. The aircraft features a boom refueling system, as well as wing-mounted drogue pods for probe-and-drogue refueling.
Compared to its predecessor, the KC-135 Stratotanker, the KC-46A offers significant improvements in fuel capacity, range, and refueling speed. The Pegasus also features advanced avionics and communication systems, enhancing its ability to integrate with other aircraft and command centers. The KC-46A’s enhanced refueling capabilities and range enable the USAF to project power more effectively, supporting a wide range of missions, from combat to humanitarian assistance. The aircraft’s advanced avionics and communication systems also facilitate seamless integration with other assets, enhancing overall force effectiveness.
Despite its impressive capabilities, the KC-46A program has faced challenges and controversies, including delays, cost overruns, and issues with the aircraft’s remote vision system.
