Boeing awarded $2.3 billion contract for additional Air Force KC-46A tanker aircraft

Boeing announced Tuesday it will build an additional 15 KC-46A Pegasus tankers under a “Lot 10 contract” awarded by the U.S. Air Force valued at $2.3 billion. One hundred fifty-three KC-46A multi-mission aerial refuelers are now on contract globally, providing advanced capability advantages for the joint force and allies.

With a supplier network of about 37,000 American workers employed by more than 650 businesses throughout more than 40 U.S. states, the combat-proven KC-46A is transforming the role of the tanker for the 21st century.

From aerial refueling, cargo, passenger transportation, aeromedical evacuation and data connectivity at the tactical edge, the KC-46A Pegasus has already been called a “game changer” for its ability to transmit and exchange data, enabling rapid air mobility, global reach and Agile Combat Employment.

Earlier this year, the Air Force awarded Boeing a Block 1 upgrade contract, adding more advanced communications capabilities to enhance the aircraft’s data connectivity and situational awareness.

“In the current global environment, we continue to focus our investments on evolving the aircraft for the changing needs of the mission,” said Lynn Fox, vice president and KC-46 program manager.

To date, Boeing has delivered 76 KC-46As to the Air Force and two to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.