Air Force again changes course on tankers, plans new ‘production extension’ program
The Air Force plans to use the Boeing KC-46 Pegasus’s Capability Production Document “as the most affordable requirements basis” for the new program, potentially giving the embattled aerospace manufacturer a leg up in a competition.
By Michael Marrow
on July 01, 2025 at 4:18 PM
WASHINGTON — Just two years after unveiling a new tanker strategy that would involve the development of a futuristic stealthy tanker, the Air Force is yet again shifting course for its air refueling fleet, and is now eyeing a novel program to extend tanker production — a move that could favor Boeing’s KC-46 Pegasus.
The refreshed tanker plan, unveiled in fiscal 2026 budget documents recently released by the Defense Department, calls for a “Tanker Production Extension” program, set to launch next year. The Air Force is requesting $23.8 million for the effort, which should finish developing a request for proposals by the third quarter of FY26, according to the documents.
It’s not clear what the Air Force will ultimately decide for the new production extension program. One path would involve a competition that could draw rival bids for the KC-46 from industry players like Airbus and Embraer who have previously expressed interest in providing the service’s tanker needs. Whatever is ultimately picked for this new extension program would start production after Boeing completes deliveries under its current KC-46 contract, which is expected to conclude around the end of this decade.
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/07/air-force-again-changes-course-on-tankers-plans-new-production-extension-program/
