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The United States Air Force (USAF) is currently weighing options as it finds a home for the country’s next-generation KC-46A Pegasus refuelling fleet.
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Seven bases have already been selected by the Department of the Air Force as possible candidate locations for KC-46A Pegasus Main Operating Base 7, according to a statement published on 3 October.
The American military aerial refuelling and strategic military transport aircraft was developed by Boeing on the 767 jet airliner platform and reportedly represents a major uplift in aerial refuelling for the USAF and allied nations.
“A final basing decision for the location of the ANG’s KC-46A MOB 7 is expected in 2027. One base will be selected to host the new mission pending a final basing decision, and the outcome of a planned environmental impact analysis anticipated no later than 2027,” USAF said in a statement.
“KC-46s will replace KC-135 Stratotankers at the final decision location and bring enhanced capabilities, such as boom and drogue refuelling on the same sortie, worldwide navigation and communication, cargo capacity on the entire main deck floor, receiver air refuelling, improved force protection, and multi-point air refuelling capability.
“The first of eight aircraft are scheduled to arrive in 2031.”
It’s understood current candidate locations include Bangor Air National Guard Base, Forbes Field Air National Guard Base, Key Field Air National Guard Base, McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, Scott Air Force Base and Sumpter Smith Air National Guard Base.
