KC-46A Tanker Modernization (KC-46A)

Abstract : The KC-46A Tanker Modernization (KC-46A) will replace the U.S. Air Force's aging fleet of Tankers which have been the primary refueling aircraft for more than 50 years. The KC-46A will have enhanced refueling capabilities with greater capacity, and both cargo and aeromedical evacuation with improved efficiency and increased capabilities. The KC-46A will provide aerial refueling support to the United States Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as allied nation coalition aircraft. The KC-46A will have the ability to refuel any fixed-wing receiver capable aircraft on any mission. The KC-46A will be equipped with a modernized KC-10 refueling boom integrated with a fly-by-wire control system, and will be capable of delivering a fuel offload rate required for large aircraft. Furthermore, a hose and drogue system will add additional mission capability which will be independently operable from the refueling boom system. The centerline drogue and wing aerial refueling pods (WARPs) will be used to refuel aircraft fitted with probes. All KC-46A aircraft will be configured for the installation of a Multi-Point Refueling System capable of refueling two receiver aircraft simultaneously from the WARPs mounted under the wings. One Aerial Refueling Operator will control the boom, centerline drogue, and WARPs during refueling operations. Panoramic displays will provide the Aerial Refueling Operator with wing-tip to wing-tip situational awareness.