Package Includes FMS That Could Mean Significant Fuel Savings, Lower Noise

The list of subcontractors that will supply parts and systems for the new KC-46A tanker is starting to become more clear. Monday, GE Aviation said it had been selected to provide advanced technologies in mission control systems for the Boeing KC-46A, which was selected by the U.S. Air Force for the tanker replacement program.

The initiative calls for 179 tankers to replace the current USAF tanker fleet. GE Aviation was selected for the mission control system, which includes flight management systems. GE's flight management system (FMS) provides the ability to fly shorter flight paths and idle-thrust descents which reduces fuel consumption, thereby lowering emissions and community noise levels.

"We are committed to bringing our next-generation technologies to this new tanker platform," said Lorraine Bolsinger, president and CEO of GE Aviation Systems. "The flight management system will enable the aircraft to perform with navigation precision not currently available to the tanker fleet. Our technologies will help enhance operational efficiencies and will enable the aircraft to perform to the demanding mission requirements of the USAF Tanker."

FMI: www.geae.com