KC-46A Rollout To Occur In FY2016

The Air Force has released its basing criteria for the KC-46A refueler that will be used to select candidate bases for the aircraft’s training unit and initial two operating bases. The formal training unit and first main operating base will be at active duty units, while the second main operating base will be at an Air National Guard unit. The active duty units will begin receiving aircraft in FY16 and the Air Guard base will get their aircraft two years later.

Basing criteria for the operating bases and training unit has been approved by the Secretary of the Air Force and Air Force Chief of Staff. They include mission, capacity, environmental requirements and cost factors. Chief of Staff Norton A. Schwartz said "The KC-46A tanker is a critical force multiplier and essential to the way this nation fights its wars and provides humanitarian support around the globe. The KC-46A is a game changer, and will be a great asset to the nation, not only as a tanker, but as a means to augment the airlift fleet, provide aeromedical evacuation and transport of passengers and cargo."

"The Air Force is committed to an open and transparent process to address KC-46A basing," said Kathleen Ferguson, Air Force deputy assistant secretary for installations, "As we progress through the basing process, we will share information so interested communities are aware of what to expect."

FMI: www.aetc.af.mil