For Immediate Release:         
October 12, 2022
          
Contact:         
Cassie Nichols
[email protected]

ICYMI: Governor Kelly Op-Ed: The Future of the Air Force Tanker Program

KEY QUOTE: "I encourage the U.S. Air Force and our partners around the globe to choose the KC-46. By doing so, they’ll support the Kansas economy, our workers, and our families – and help our nation tackle today’s most pressing industry and security challenges. There’s no question, the KC-46 is an essential aircraft for America’s national security and global stability, both now and in the future."

The Future of Air Force Tanker Program
Governor Laura Kelly | RealClear Defense
October 12, 2022

Kansas is KC-46 country, the manufacturing and basing center for the most advanced aerial refueling tanker in the world. In Wichita, Spirit AeroSystems builds and assembles the aircraft’s nose section, struts, and engine housing. A few miles to the south, McConnell Air Force Base serves as the tanker’s main operating base. So when our men and women in uniform count on the United States to maintain its dominance in the skies, they’re really counting on Kansas – and on our ability to keep building the KC-46.
The KC-46 enhances the U.S. military’s capabilities, helping other aircraft extend their range and engage on battlefields otherwise out of reach. With its unique defensive systems and self-protection measures, the tanker can operate close to conflict, minimizing the time required for refueling. This is especially crucial when American servicemembers are on the ground requiring consistent air cover.
The KC-46 is also reliable. KC-46 crews are now flying more than 400 sorties per month, transferring millions of pounds of fuel to joint force receivers and supporting U.S. servicemembers and allies while enhancing our strategic advantage around the world. Air Force operators, including Team McConnell, are proving out the KC-46’s capabilities and demonstrating the outstanding dependability of the platform, the crews, and support teams, as well as the tanker’s strong supply chain network.
And most important to me, the KC-46 gets our servicemembers home. I grew up in a military family. My dad was career Army, serving during World War II and earning a Purple Heart in the Korean Conflict. I know first-hand how essential it is that we protect our nation’s finest – the men and women who commit their lives to protecting our freedoms here at home and abroad. The KC-46 helps ensure they return to their loved ones safe and sound.

###