Boeing plans to build 179 next-generation, multi-role tankers for the Air Force to replace its legacy tanker fleet, with deliveries expected to begin later this year.
This fourth production lot for 18 KC-46 military aircraft follows the first production lot for seven tankers and second lot for 12 aircraft, both contracted in Aug. 2016, and the third lot for 15 aircraft awarded in Jan. 2017.
Boeing received an initial contract in 2011 to design and develop the Air Force’s newest tanker aircraft. The KC-46A is a 767-based, multirole tanker that can refuel all allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures and can carry passengers, cargo, and patients.
“We’re excited to partner with the Air Force on an aircraft that will provide its fleet unmatched capabilities and versatility,” Boeing KC-46A Tanker Vice President and Program Manager Mike Gibbons says.
Boeing is assembling KC-46 aircraft at its Everett, Wash., facility.
Learn more
-
Boeing KC-46 program completes flight testing required for first delivery to U.S. Air Force
-
Bookmark http://www.sae.org/news to keep pace with the latest aerospace technology news & information.
-
Read more SAE International articles on the Boeing KC-46
-
Learn about AeroPaks to access 8,000+ SAE aerospace standards, specifications, recommended practices, and resource documents available in SAE MOBILUS.
-
Subscribe to SAE MOBILUS for access to more than 200,000 resources, including aerospace standards, technical papers, eBooks, magazines, and video.
Courtney E. Howard is editorial director and content strategist at SAE International, Aerospace Products Group. Contact her by e-mail at courtney.howard@sae.org.
Continue reading »