Boeing wins low-rate initial production contract of KC-46A tanker
NewsAugust 19, 2016
EVERETT, Wash. U.S. Air Force officials achieved Milestone C on the KC-46 program, giving the green light to Boeing to begin production on the KC-46A tanker. The low-rate initial production contract valued an estimated $2.8 billion.
Boeing plans, if all options are exercised, to build a total of 179 of the 767-based refueling aircraft for the Air Force to replace their KC-135 fleet. The contract takes into account the first two production lots of seven and 12 planes respectively, as well as spare parts.
In 2011, Boeing received the initial contract to develop and design the next generation tanker aircraft for the Air Force. For that contract, Boeing built four test aircraft – two configured as 767-2Cs and two as KC-46A tankers.
The KC-46A is a multirole tanker that can refuel allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures. It can also carry passengers, cargo, and patients.
Assembling of the tanker is being performed at Boeing's facility in Everett, Washington and deliveries are expected in 2017.
