View source for Engineering:Boeing KC-46 Pegasus

{{Short description|2010s American military aerial refueling and transport aircraft}}
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{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
| name = KC-46 Pegasus
| image = File:KC-46 Pegasus prepares to refuel C-17 (cropped).jpg
| caption = A {{wipe|United States Air Force}} KC-46A with refueling boom lowered
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
| type = Tanker/[[Engineering:Military transport aircraft|transport]]
| national origin = United States
| manufacturer = Boeing Defense, Space & Security
| designer =
| first flight = 25 September 2015
| introduction = 2019
| retired =
| status = In service<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3163982/kc-46a-cleared-for-worldwide-deployments-following-first-combat-refuel/ | title=KC-46A cleared for worldwide deployments following first combat refuel | date=20 September 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://theaviationgeekclub.com/air-mobility-command-approves-kc-46a-pegasus-for-worldwide-deployments-following-first-combat-refuel/ | title=Air Mobility Command approves KC-46A Pegasus for worldwide deployments following first combat refuel | date=22 September 2022 }}</ref>
| primary user = {{wipe|United States Air Force}}
| more users = Japan Air Self-Defense Force
| produced = 2013–present
| number built = 78 as of October 2023<ref>{{cite web |title=Orders & Deliveries |url=https://www.boeing.com/commercial/#/orders-deliveries |website=[[Company:Boeing|Boeing]] |access-date=12 October 2023}}</ref>
| developed from = [[Engineering:Boeing KC-767|Boeing KC-767]]
| variants with their own articles=
}}
|}

The '''Boeing KC-46 Pegasus''' is an American military aerial refueling and strategic [[Engineering:Military transport aircraft|military transport aircraft]] developed by [[Company:Boeing|Boeing]] from its [[Engineering:Boeing 767|767]] jet airliner. In February 2011, the tanker was selected by the {{wipe|United States Air Force}} (USAF) as the winner in the KC-X tanker competition to replace older [[Engineering:Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker|Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker]]s. The first aircraft was delivered to the Air Force in January 2019.<ref name=Boeing10jan2019>{{cite press release |url= https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-01-10-U-S-Air-Force-Accepts-First-Boeing-KC-46A-Pegasus-Tanker-Aircraft |title= U.S. Air Force Accepts First Boeing KC-46A Pegasus Tanker Aircraft |date= Jan 10, 2019 |publisher= Boeing |access-date= 10 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190110235116/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2019-01-10-U-S-Air-Force-Accepts-First-Boeing-KC-46A-Pegasus-Tanker-Aircraft |archive-date= 10 January 2019 |url-status= live}}</ref> The Air Force intends to procure 179 Pegasus aircraft by 2027.

==Development==

===Background===
{{main|Engineering:Boeing KC-767}}

In 2001, the U.S. Air Force began a procurement program to replace around 100 of its oldest KC-135E Stratotankers, and selected [[Company:Boeing|Boeing's]] [[Engineering:Boeing KC-767|KC-767]]. The Boeing tanker received the ''KC-767A'' designation from the United States Department of Defense in 2002 and appeared in the 2004 edition of DoD model designation report.<ref name= DoD_4120L>{{Cite web |date=12 May 2004 |title=Model Designation of Military Aerospace Vehicles |url=https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodm/412015l.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115173923/https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodm/412015l.pdf |archive-date=15 November 2023 |website=Executive Services Directorate}}</ref> The USAF decided to lease 100 KC-767 tankers from Boeing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tirpak |first=John A. |date=1 August 2003 |title=100 Tankers |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0803tankers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528055549/https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0803tankers/ |archive-date=28 May 2023 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine}}</ref>

U.S. Senator John McCain and others criticized the draft leasing agreement as being wasteful and problematic. In response to protests, the USAF struck a compromise in November 2003, whereby it would purchase 80 KC-767s and lease 20 more.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tirpak |first=John A. |date=1 February 2004 |title=Tanker Twilight Zone |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0204tanker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230421013925/https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0204tanker/ |archive-date=21 April 2023 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lunsford |first=J. Lynn |last2=Jaffe |first2=Greg |date=7 November 2003 |title=Pentagon Sets Compromise On Boeing Tanker-Lease Deal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106813380663927200 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240110225118/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106813380663927200 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |access-date=10 January 2004 |website=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref> In December 2003, the Pentagon announced a freeze on the program over an investigation into alleged corruption that led to the jailing of one of its former procurement executives who applied to work for Boeing.<ref>{{cite news |last=Cahlink |first=George |date=1 October 2004 |title=Ex-Pentagon procurement executive gets jail time |url=https://www.govexec.com/defense/2004/10/ex-pentagon-procurement-executive-gets-jail-time/17737/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108095404/https://www.govexec.com/defense/2004/10/ex-pentagon-procurement-executive-gets-jail-time/17737/ |archive-date=8 November 2022 |access-date=21 December 2006 |publisher=Govexec.com}}</ref> The KC-767A contract was canceled by the DoD in January 2006.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Majumdar |first=Dave |date=24 February 2011 |title=Boeing wins KC-X tanker battle |url=http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2011/02/defense-boeing-win-tanker-contract-022411/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721215931/http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2011/02/defense-boeing-win-tanker-contract-022411/#selection-507.0-507.30 |archive-date=21 July 2012 |website=Air Force Times}}</ref>

===USAF KC-X program===

In 2006, the USAF released a request for proposal (RFP) for a new tanker program, KC-X, to be selected by 2007. Boeing announced it may enter a higher capability tanker based on the [[Engineering:Boeing 777|Boeing 777]], named the ''KC-777'' Strategic Tanker.  [[Company:Airbus|Airbus]] partnered with [[Company:Northrop Grumman|Northrop Grumman]] to offer the [[Engineering:Airbus A330 MRTT|Airbus A330 MRTT]], the tanker version of the [[Engineering:Airbus A330|A330]], which was marketed to the USAF under the designation ''KC-30''.<ref>[http://www.northropgrumman.com/kc30/ Northrop Grumman KC-30 marketing web site] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090130055050/http://www.northropgrumman.com/kc30/ |date=30 January 2009}}</ref> In January 2007, the USAF issued the KC-X Aerial Refueling Aircraft RFP, calling for 179 tankers, four system development and demonstration and 175 production, in a contract worth an estimated US$40 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=40000000000|start_year=2007}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref>[http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123039273 Air Force Posts KC-X Request for Proposals] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070215184337/http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123039273 |date=15 February 2007}}. USAF, 30 January 2007.</ref> Northrop and EADS expressed dissatisfaction at how the RFP was structured and threatened to withdraw, leaving only Boeing in the running.<ref name="atnr1">Evens, Ben and Daly, Matthew (AP), "Northrop-EADS threatens to withdraw bid for US Air Force contract leaving only Boeing". ''Aerotech News and Review'', 2 February 2007.</ref>

[[File:BOEING KC767 McConnellAFB.JPG|thumb|An Italian Air Force KC-767 on the apron at McConnell AFB/Boeing Factory in Wichita, Kansas, in 2010|alt=Gray jet aircraft facing left on apron against a cloudless, pale blue sky. In the foreground are green grass; the foreground is a wet tarmac.]]
In February 2007, Boeing announced it was offering the KC-767 Advanced Tanker for the KC-X,<ref name= "ap_20070212">Borak, D. [http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2003568484_webtanker12.html "Boeing Unveils Air Force Tanker in $40 Billion Contract Competition"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524044220/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2003568484_webtanker12.html |date=24 May 2011}}. Associated Press. 12 February 2007.</ref> stating that the KC-767 was a better fit than the KC-777 for the requirements.<ref name="why 767">[http://www.airforce-magazine.com/Features/modernization/Pages/box021307boeing.aspx "Why the 767?"] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110429021749/http://www.airforce-magazine.com/Features/modernization/Pages/box021307boeing.aspx |date=29 April 2011}} Air Force magazine, 13 February 2007.</ref> In April 2007, Boeing submitted its KC-767 tanker proposal to USAF.<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q2/070411b_nr.html "Boeing Submits KC-767 Advanced Tanker Proposal to U.S. Air Force"] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070521163650/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q2/070411b_nr.html |date=21 May 2007}}. Boeing, 11 April 2007.</ref> The KC-767 offered for this KC-X round was based on the in-development 767-200LRF (Long Range Freighter), rather than the -200ER on which Italian and Japanese KC-767 aircraft are based,<ref name= "boeing5">[http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q1/070212b_nr.html "Boeing Offers KC-767 Advanced Tanker to U.S. Air Force"] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070214105112/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q1/070212b_nr.html |date=14 February 2007}}. Boeing, 12 February 2007.</ref> differing by combining the -200ER fuselage, -300F wing, gear, cargo door and floor, -400ER digital flightdeck and flaps, uprated engines, and "sixth-generation" [[Fly-by-wire|fly-by-wire]] fuel delivery boom.<ref>{{cite news |title=Size matters in US Air Force KC-X contest |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/size-matters-in-us-air-force-kc-x-contest-220925/ |publisher= Flightglobal |date=21 January 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121104101403/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/size-matters-in-us-air-force-kc-x-contest-220925/ |archive-date=4 November 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Boeing submitted its final proposal in January 2008.<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2008/q1/080103b_nr.html "Boeing Submits Final KC-767 Advanced Tanker Proposal to U.S. Air Force"] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110628201945/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2008/q1/080103b_nr.html |date=28 June 2011}}. Boeing, 3 January 2008.</ref> In February 2008, the DoD chose the KC-30 over the KC-767, the USAF subsequently designated it KC-45A.<ref name="KC-X select">Butler, Amy, Fulghum, Davis A and Wall, Robert. [https://web.archive.org/web/20110521055557/http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news%2Faw03038p1.xml&headline=Northrop%2FEADS%20Clinches%20U.S.%20Refueler%20Deal&channel=awst "Northrop/EADS Clinches U.S. Refueler Deal"]. ''Aviation Week'', 29 February 2008.</ref> Boeing submitted a protest to the United States [[Engineering:Government Accountability Office|Government Accountability Office]] in March 2008 and waged a public relations campaign in support of their protest.<ref name=King5>{{cite web |url= http://www.king5.com/topstories/stories/NW_061808BUB_boeing_gao_air_tanker_contract_JM.161e241b.html |title=GAO backs Boeing tanker protest |publisher=King-TV |date=18 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081229142313/http://www.king5.com/topstories/stories/NW_061808BUB_boeing_gao_air_tanker_contract_JM.161e241b.html |archive-date=29 December 2008}}</ref> In June, after USAF admissions on bidding process flaws, the GAO upheld Boeing's protest and recommended the contract be rebid.<ref name=King5/> In July 2008, Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced that the USAF would reopen bidding,<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/10/business/10tanker.html?hp "Air Force to Reopen Bidding on Tanker Contract"] {{Webarchive|url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160201184126/http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/10/business/10tanker.html?hp |date=1 February 2016}}. New York Times, 10 July 2008.</ref> and put the contract into an "expedited recompetition" with Defense Undersecretary John Young in charge of the selection process, not the USAF.<ref name="Pentagon Reopens">Kruzel, John J. [http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=50453 "Pentagon Reopens Bidding on Tanker Contract"] {{webarchive |url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080815051310/http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=50453 |date=15 August 2008}}. US DoD, 9 July 2008.</ref> A draft of the revised RFP was provided to contractors in August 2008 for comments.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110521065951/http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news%2FREVISED08068.xml "Pentagon Issues New Tanker Bid Parameters"]. ''Aviation Week'', 6 August 2008.</ref> However, in September 2008, the DoD canceled the KC-X solicitation.<ref name = "KC-X_term">[http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=12195 "DoD Announces Termination of KC-X Tanker Solicitation"] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080913120002/http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=12195 |date=13 September 2008}}. US DoD, 10 September 2008.</ref>

In September 2009, the USAF began a new round of bids with a clearer set of criteria, including reducing the number of requirements from 800 to 373 in an attempt to simplify the process and allow a more objective decision to be made.<ref name=wsj>{{cite news |url = https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB125383323357539115 |title=Air Force Resumes Tanker Contest |first1=August |last1=Cole |first2=Peter |last2= Sanders |newspaper=Wall Street Journal |date=25 September 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160123075346/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB125383323357539115 |archive-date=23 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2010, Boeing announced it would bid the KC-767 for the new KC-X round.<ref>[http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1102 "Boeing to Offer NewGen Tanker to US Air Force"] {{Webarchive|url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110714064746/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1102 |date=14 July 2011}}. Boeing, 4 March 2010.</ref> EADS stated in April 2010 it would submit a bid without Northrop Grumman as a U.S. partner.<ref>[https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704448304575196062161714870 "EADS Re-Enters Tanker Bidding"] {{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180326203035/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704448304575196062161714870 |date=26 March 2018}}. Wall Street Journal, 21 April 2010.</ref><ref>Butler, Amy. [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=defense&id=news/awx/2010/03/08/awx_03_08_2010_p0-210276.xml&headline=Northrop%20Grumman%20Officially%20Out%20of%20KC-X "Northrop Grumman Officially Out of KC-X"]{{Dead link |date=June 2011}}. ''Aviation Week'', 9 March 2010.</ref> Boeing submitted its KC-767 "NewGen Tanker" bid, based on the 767-200 with an improved version of the KC-10's refueling boom, and cockpit displays from the 787, in July 2010.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Trimble |first1=Stephen |title=USAF receives three proposals for KC-X, but Antonov team admits concerns |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/07/09/344276/usaf-receives-three-proposals-for-kc-x-but-antonov-team-admits.html|url-status=dead |publisher=Flightglobal |date=9 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100713073942/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/07/09/344276/usaf-receives-three-proposals-for-kc-x-but-antonov-team-admits.html |archive-date=13 July 2010}}</ref><ref>Warwick, Graham. [http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story.jsp?id=news/awx/2011/02/24/awx_02_24_2011_p0-292532.xml&headline=Boeing%20Wins%20Restaged%20U.S.%20Air%20Force%20KC-X%20Tanker&channel=defense "Boeing Wins Restaged U.S. Air Force KC-X Tanker"]{{Dead link |date= June 2011}}. ''Aviation Week'', 25 February 2011.</ref><ref name= FI_reveals_specifications>{{cite news |last= Trimble |first= Stephen |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/09/29/347896/boeing-source-reveals-specifications-for-kc-767-newgen.html |title= Boeing source reveals specifications for KC-767 NewGen Tanker |work= Flight International |date= 29 September 2010 |publisher=Flightglobal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101002001110/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/09/29/347896/boeing-source-reveals-specifications-for-kc-767-newgen.html |archive-date=2 October 2010}}</ref> Boeing submitted a revised bid in February 2011.<ref>Gates, Dominic. [http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/boeingaerospace/2014188468_tanker11.html "Boeing, EADS Submit Final Bids For Air Force Tanker Contract"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110317192108/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/boeingaerospace/2014188468_tanker11.html |date=17 March 2011}}. ''Seattle Times'', 11 February 2011.</ref>

In addition to the KC-X, observers speculate that a modified KC-46 will be used as the basis of the KC-Y tanker program, the second step of the USAF's three-step tanker renewal plan, as replacing it with something entirely new is likely too big a risk.<ref>[https://archive.today/20140920152626/http://www.defensenews.com/article/20140914/DEFREG02/309140017/What-s-Next-USAF-Lays-Groundwork-Replace-Fighter-Tanker-Fleets "What's Next: USAF Lays Groundwork To Replace Fighter, Tanker Fleets"]. Defense news, 14 September 2014</ref> In September 2016, Air Mobility Command stated that the follow-on ''KC-Y'' acquisition program to replace the remaining KC-135s had been abandoned in favor of further KC-46s with upgrades.<ref>[http://airforcemag.com/DRArchive/Pages/2016/September%202016/September%2021%202016/On-to-the-Stealthy-KC-Z.aspx On to the Stealthy KC-Z] {{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161012140921/http://airforcemag.com/DRArchive/Pages/2016/September%202016/September%2021%202016/On-to-the-Stealthy-KC-Z.aspx |date=12 October 2016}} - Airforcemag.com, 21 September 2016.</ref>

===Selection and early development===
In February 2011, the USAF announced the selection of Boeing's KC-767 bid, which was designated ''KC-46A''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Trimble |first1=Stephen |title= USAF selects Boeing for KC-X contract |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/updated-usaf-selects-boeing-for-kc-x-contract-353642/ |access-date=24 February 2011 |publisher= Flightglobal |date=24 February 2011 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105081038/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/updated-usaf-selects-boeing-for-kc-x-contract-353642/ |archive-date=5 November 2012 |url-status= live}}</ref><ref>[https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-24/boeing-wins-35b-air-force-tanker-deal.html "Boeing Wins $35B Air Force Tanker Deal"] {{Webarchive|url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141030135156/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-24/boeing-wins-35b-air-force-tanker-deal.html |date=30 October 2014}}. Bloomberg, 24 February 2011.</ref> Boeing was awarded a development contract, which called for the delivery of 18 initial operational KC-46s by 2017. The USAF sought a total of 179 new tankers.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1638 |type= press release |title= Boeing Receives US Air Force Contract to Build Next-Generation Refueling Tanker |publisher= Boeing |date= 24 February 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110228181835/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1638 |archive-date= 28 February 2011 |url-status= live}}</ref> In June 2011, development costs were reportedly projected to overrun by about $300 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=300000000|start_year=2011}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}). Boeing would be responsible for this amount, which exceeds the contract cost cap of $4.9 billion.<ref>{{cite web |last= Cappacio |first= Tony |title= Boeing projected to face $300 million overrun on tanker contract |publisher= NW source |url= http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2015420023_tanker25.html |work= The Seattle Times |access-date= 29 June 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110702150056/http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2015420023_tanker25.html |archive-date= 2 July 2011 |url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Butler |first=Amy |title= Boeing Liable For KC-46 Overage |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?channel=aerospacedaily&id=news/asd/2011/06/29/01.xml&headline=Boeing%20Liable%20For%20KC-46%20Overage |publisher= Aviation Week |date= 29 June 2011 |access-date= 29 July 2011}}{{dead link |date=July 2016}}</ref> In July 2011, revised projections indicated a reduced cost overrun.<ref>Weisgerber, Marcus. [https://archive.today/20120905143845/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=7214822&c=AME&s=AIR "Boeing Lowers KC-46 Cost Estimate"]. ''Defense News'', 27 July 2011.</ref> In 2013, the USAF added additional crews and flight hours to their future plans in response to a review that showed that the best of current plans did not take full advantage of the KC-46's cargo and aeromedical evacuation advantages over the KC-135.<ref>{{cite web |website= Global security |date= 5 February 2013 |url= http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2013/02/mil-130205-afns02.htm |title= Air Force increases projected KC-46 flying hours, crew ratio |access-date= 6 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140201150205/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2013/02/mil-130205-afns02.htm |archive-date= 1 February 2014 |url-status= live}}</ref>

In August 2013, Boeing and the USAF completed a critical design review (CDR) for the KC-46. With the CDR complete, the design was set and production and testing could proceed. Wing assembly for the first aircraft began in June 2013. Flight testing of the 767-2C airframe, which would be reconfigured into the KC-46, was scheduled to begin in mid-2014. The first fully-equipped KC-46 was projected to fly in early 2015. The contract called for Boeing to build four test aircraft and deliver 18 combat-ready tankers by August 2017. The USAF intended to buy 179 KC-46s, with all delivered by 2028.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Majumdar |first1=Dave |title=USAF and Boeing complete KC-46 critical design review |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usaf-and-boeing-complete-kc-46-critical-design-review-390198/ |access-date=5 September 2013 |publisher=Flightglobal |date=4 September 2013 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927045758/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/usaf-and-boeing-complete-kc-46-critical-design-review-390198/ |archive-date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[http://boeing.mediaroom.com/US-Air-Force-Boeing-Finalize-KC-46A-Tanker-Aircraft-Design "US Air Force, Boeing Finalize KC-46A Tanker Aircraft Design."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130908164056/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/US-Air-Force-Boeing-Finalize-KC-46A-Tanker-Aircraft-Design |date=8 September 2013}} Boeing news release, 4 September 2013.</ref>

In December 2013, Boeing joined the wings and fuselage for the first 767-2C to be adapted into a KC-46A.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/asd_12_12_2013_p01-02-645898.xml |title= Boeing Joins First KC-46A Airframe |work= Aviation Week |date= 12 December 2013 }}{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The first of four 767-2C provision freighters were to complete assembly by the end of January 2014. Once assembled, it would go through ground vibration and instrumentation testing and have body fuel tanks added. The first test flight would occur during summer 2014 and include measuring its rate of climb and descent. The Engineering Manufacturing and Design (EMD) model was to be integrated with the needed systems and technologies to become a military-standard KC-46A by January 2015. Seven low-rate production KC-46s were to be delivered in 2015, 12 in 2016, and 15 delivered annually from 2017 to 2027.<ref name = "dodbuzz 2014">[http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/01/12/first-kc-46a-baseline-test-aircraft-due-this-month/ "First KC-46A Baseline Test Aircraft Due This Month"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140115070255/http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/01/12/first-kc-46a-baseline-test-aircraft-due-this-month/ |date=15 January 2014}}. DoDBuzz.com, 12 January 2014</ref> The last of four test aircraft began assembly in January 2014.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hemmerdinger |first1=Jon |title=Boeing assembles final KC-46A test aircraft |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-assembles-final-kc-46a-test-aircraft-394946/ |publisher=Flightglobal |date=16 January 2014 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140120010836/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-assembles-final-kc-46a-test-aircraft-394946/ |archive-date=20 January 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In April 2014, the [[Engineering:Government Accountability Office|Government Accountability Office]] (GAO) found that the KC-46 program was projected to underrun its projected cost estimate of $51.7 billion by $300 million. The program acquisition unit cost per jet will be $287 million, $1.8 million less than estimated. The GAO noted that delays in training air crew and maintainers could cause testing to slip 6–12 months, but stated that the program had not missed any major milestones and that the development of about 15.8 million lines of software code was progressing as planned.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.airforcemag.com/DRArchive/Pages/2014/April%202014/April%2011%202014/KC-46-on-the-Money.aspx |title= KC-46 on the Money |work= Air Force mag |date= 11 April 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140413151223/http://www.airforcemag.com/DRArchive/Pages/2014/April%202014/April%2011%202014/KC-46-on-the-Money.aspx |archive-date= 13 April 2014 |url-status= live}}</ref> In May 2014, the USAF estimated the development program's cost, including the first four aircraft, could rise from $4.4–4.9 billion to $5.85 billion.<ref>Cameron, Doug. [https://www.wsj.com/news/articles/SB20001424052702304512704580045480557861378 "Boeing takes hit for tanker troubles"]{{dead link |date=July 2016}}. Wall Street Journal, 24 July 2014, p. B2.</ref>

In July 2014, Boeing recorded a $272 million pre-tax charge to cover the tanker's wiring redesign.<ref>[http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2014-07-23-Boeing-Reports-Second-Quarter-Results-and-Raises-2014-EPS-Guidance "Boeing Reports Second-Quarter Results and Raises 2014 EPS Guidance"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140730060130/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2014-07-23-Boeing-Reports-Second-Quarter-Results-and-Raises-2014-EPS-Guidance |date=30 July 2014}}. Boeing, 23 July 2014.</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Trimble |first1=Stephen |title=Boeing reports KC-46A loss, rejects wider concerns |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-reports-kc-46a-loss-rejects-wider-concerns-401948/ |publisher=Flightglobal |date=23 July 2014 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031133401/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-reports-kc-46a-loss-rejects-wider-concerns-401948/ |archive-date=31 October 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> The wiring issue arose when it was found that 5-10% of the wiring bundles did not have sufficient separation distance or were not properly shielded to meet a USAF requirement for double or triple-redundant wiring for some mission systems. In September 2014, it was confirmed that the wiring redesign would delay the first 767-2C flight from June 2014 to November 2014.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/military-government/first-flight-kc-46-tanker-platform-slips-further |title=First Flight for KC-46 Tanker Platform Slips Further |last1=Everstine |first1=Brian |date=16 September 2014 |work=Aviation Week |publisher=Penton |access-date=12 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141031033648/http://aviationweek.com/military-government/first-flight-kc-46-tanker-platform-slips-further |archive-date=31 October 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.airforcetimes.com/article/20140916/NEWS04/309160062 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140916222712/http://www.airforcetimes.com/article/20140916/NEWS04/309160062 |url-status=dead |archive-date=16 September 2014 |title=First flight delayed for KC-46A test aircraft |last1=Everstine |first1=Brian |date=16 September 2014 |website= airforcetimes.com |publisher=Gannett}}</ref> In March 2015, the program cost to develop and procure 179 tankers was projected to total US$43.16 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=43160000000|start_year=2015}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref name=GAO-15-342SP>{{cite web |url=http://www.gao.gov/assets/670/668986.pdf#page=111 |page=103 |title=GAO-15-342SP DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS Assessments of Selected Weapon Programs |publisher=US Government Accountability Office |date=March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924043422/http://www.gao.gov/assets/670/668986.pdf#page=111 |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Flight tests and delays===
[[File:KC-46 refuels A-10 during Milestone C test.jpg|thumb|A KC-46A refuels an [[Engineering:Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II|A-10 Thunderbolt II]].]]

The 767-2C's first flight took place on 28 December 2014. It flew from Paine Field and landed at Boeing Field.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/boeing-767-2c-first-flight-begins-tanker-test-campaign |title=Boeing 767-2C First Flight Begins Tanker Test Campaign |author=Norris, Guy |date=29 December 2014 |work=Aviation Week |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150610040420/http://aviationweek.com/defense/boeing-767-2c-first-flight-begins-tanker-test-campaign |archive-date=10 June 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author1=Daryl Mayer |title=Boeing completes successful first flight in KC-46 program |url=http://www.af.mil/mobile/News/tabid/252/Article/558801/boeing-completes-successful-first-flight-in-kc-46-program.aspx |publisher=88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs |date=28 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160201184127/http://www.af.mil/mobile/News/tabid/252/Article/558801/boeing-completes-successful-first-flight-in-kc-46-program.aspx |archive-date=1 February 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2015, a refueling test with a C-17 transport was stopped because of a higher-than-expected boom axial load while delivering fuel. The problem was caused by the turbulent "bow wave effect" generated by two large aircraft flying in line.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=Boeing's KC-46 test run complicated by C-17 refuelling issue |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeings-kc-46-test-run-complicated-by-c-17-refuelli-423831/ |publisher=Flightglobal |date=4 April 2016 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415145826/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeings-kc-46-test-run-complicated-by-c-17-refuelli-423831/ |archive-date=15 April 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/2016/04/01/air-force-boeing-tanker-issue-could-delay-production-decision/82510610/ |title=Air Force: Boeing Tanker Issue Could Delay Production Decision |date=1 April 2016 |publisher=Defense News}}</ref><ref name="SLPD20160401">{{cite news |last1=Shalal |first1=Andrea |title=Boeing tanker issue may delay U.S. production decision |url=https://www.stltoday.com/business/local/boeing-tanker-issue-may-delay-u-s-production-decision/article_6f6a2ea0-8968-5175-b9b1-c9f70d789d6d.html |publisher=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=1 April 2016}}</ref> In January 2016, the KC-46 successfully refueled an [[Engineering:General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16]] for the first time during a 5 hour 36 minute sortie. Test refueling of several other military aircraft followed, including a [[Engineering:Boeing C-17 Globemaster III|C-17]], F/A-18, [[Engineering:Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II|A-10]], and [[Engineering:McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II|AV-8B]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2016-01-24-Boeing-U-S-Air-Force-Aircrews-Make-History-with-First-KC-46A-Tanker-Refueling-Flight |title=Boeing, U.S. Air Force Aircrews Make History with First KC-46A Tanker Refueling Flight |work=Boeing Press Release |date=24 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160131113345/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2016-01-24-Boeing-U-S-Air-Force-Aircrews-Make-History-with-First-KC-46A-Tanker-Refueling-Flight |archive-date=31 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2016, a KC-46 refueled an F/A-18, using its probe-and-drogue system for the first time.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Thulowiet |first1=Kenji |url=http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/656252/kc-46-refuels-fighter-jet-with-hose-drogue-system-for-first-time.aspx?source=GovD |title=KC-46 refuels fighter jet with hose, drogue system for first time |date=16 February 2016 |publisher=USAF, 412th Test Wing Public Affairs |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302162916/http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/656252/kc-46-refuels-fighter-jet-with-hose-drogue-system-for-first-time.aspx?source=GovD |archive-date=2 March 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In July 2015, Boeing announced a further $835 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=835000000|start_year=2015}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) pretax charge for the faulty integrated fuel system's redesign and retrofit.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/supplier-quality-control-fuel-system-integration-haunt-kc-46? |title=Supplier Quality Control, Fuel System Integration Haunt KC-46 |work=Aviation Week |date=24 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724213857/http://aviationweek.com/defense/supplier-quality-control-fuel-system-integration-haunt-kc-46 |archive-date=24 July 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> Wiring and fuel system flaws could delay contracts worth $3 billion for up to eight months. Following schedule revisions agreed by the USAF and Boeing, the first flight of a fully equipped KC-46 was delayed to as late as September 2015.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-07-21/boeing-faces-eight-month-delay-on-3-billion-tanker-contracts |title=Boeing Faces Eight-Month Delay on $3 Billion Tanker Contracts |work=Bloomberg Business |date=21 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724221852/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-07-21/boeing-faces-eight-month-delay-on-3-billion-tanker-contracts |archive-date=24 July 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> The Bank of America/Merrill Lynch noted in July 2015 "We fail to understand how Boeing could take a $1.26 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=1260000000|start_year=2015}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) pre-tax charge (since it won the contract over Airbus) on the Boeing KC-46A program since the program is based on the 767 airframe that has been in production for over 30 years."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/opinion-boeing-big-losses-and-missed-opportunities-tanker-market? |title=Opinion: For Boeing, Big Losses And Missed Opportunities In The Tanker Market: KC-46 Falls Flat In International Market |work=Aviation Week |date=22 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724203616/http://aviationweek.com/defense/opinion-boeing-big-losses-and-missed-opportunities-tanker-market |archive-date=24 July 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In March 2016, the Defense Contract Management Agency reportedly had low confidence in the August 2017 deadline, predicting the first 18 tankers' delivery to run about seven months late based on past performance and current risks, such as production delays, a new joint USAF-Boeing schedule review, and flight test uncertainties. The Pentagon's test office was to start combat testing in April 2017.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-03-22/boeing-likely-to-miss-delivery-date-for-tankers-pentagon-says |title=Boeing Likely to Miss Delivery Date for Tankers, Pentagon Says |newspaper=Bloomberg.com |date=22 March 2016 |publisher=Bloomberg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160325160855/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-03-22/boeing-likely-to-miss-delivery-date-for-tankers-pentagon-says |archive-date=25 March 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

An April 2016 GAO report projected an additional four months beyond the August 2017 target to deliver 18 KC-46s, and that operational testing will not begin until May 2017 and will not be completed until two months after delivery of the first 18 aircraft, risking late discoveries of problems. The GAO noted that Boeing had not obtained Federal Aviation Administration's approval for two key aerial refueling systems—the centerline drogue system and the wing aerial refueling pods, which were built without following FAA processes—Boeing projected readiness for FAA certification by July 2017, over three years late.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/2016/04/11/watchdog-challenges-ahead-boeings-kc-46-tanker/82897818/ |title=Watchdog: Challenges Ahead For Boeing's KC-46 Tanker |date=11 April 2016 |publisher=Defense News}}</ref> The 18 KC-46s were to include the four EMD aircraft raised to operational standards, plus the first 14 low-rate production tankers. Instead, 16 of the 18 were off the production line. Boeing was liable for all late design fixes on tankers delivered before testing ended.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=Boeing's 'optimistic' KC-46 plan delivers 18 tankers in six months |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeings-optimistic-kc-46-plan-delivers-18-tankers-424072/ |publisher=Flightglobal |date=12 April 2016 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160425215602/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeings-optimistic-kc-46-plan-delivers-18-tankers-424072/ |archive-date=25 April 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In April 2016, the fourth test aircraft, 767-2C EMD-3, first flew. EMD-3 focused on environmental control systems, including temperature and smoke penetration testing.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/59819/fourth-kc-46-test-aircraft-completes-initial-flight |title=Fourth KC-46 test aircraft completes initial flight |date=27 April 2016 |publisher=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160427115921/http://www.janes.com/article/59819/fourth-kc-46-test-aircraft-completes-initial-flight |archive-date=27 April 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> Two days later, Boeing took another pre-tax charge of $243 million for cost overruns, bringing the total amount paid for tanker cost overruns to $1.5 billion. Boeing president and chief executive Dennis Muilenburg stated that 80% of the test points required for a positive Milestone C decision had been completed.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=Boeing records $243 million KC-46 charge as it seeks LRIP contract |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-records-243-million-kc-46-charge-as-it-seeks-424687/ |publisher=Flightglobal |date=27 April 2016 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160428103938/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-records-243-million-kc-46-charge-as-it-seeks-424687/ |archive-date=28 April 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> Flight testing helped determine whether a refueling fault could be resolved by either software or hardware changes, which Boeing worked on in parallel.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=KC-46 team working fixes to complete C-17 demo in 'late May' |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/kc-46-team-working-fixes-to-complete-c-17-demo-in-l-425031/ |publisher=Flightglobal |date=5 May 2016 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160506202519/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/kc-46-team-working-fixes-to-complete-c-17-demo-in-l-425031/ |archive-date=6 May 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In May 2016, a further delay of at least six months due to technical and supply chain issues was reported, potentially requiring program re-structuring and cuts. At the time, only 20% of the flight tests were completed.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/kc-46a-tanker-program-braces-another-delay? |title=KC-46A Tanker Program Braces For Another Delay |date=26 May 2016 |publisher=Aviation Week |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160528040755/http://aviationweek.com/defense/kc-46a-tanker-program-braces-another-delay |archive-date=28 May 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> In June 2016, USAF spokesman Maj. Rob Leese confirmed that, while the contract with Boeing lacked predefined delay penalties, not delivering the 18 certified KC-46s by August 2017 is a contract schedule breach, and that the USAF would receive considerations from Boeing in the schedule re-baseline after the RRA delay.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/2016/06/02/boeings-penalty-latest-kc-46-delay-still-unclear/85308020/ |title=Boeing's Penalty For Latest KC-46 Delay Still Unclear |date=2 June 2016 |publisher=Defense News}}{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=USAF Considering Penalty For Boeing Over KC-46 Delays |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/usaf-considering-penalty-boeing-over-kc-46-delays? |publisher=Aviation Week |date=14 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616143541/http://aviationweek.com/defense/usaf-considering-penalty-boeing-over-kc-46-delays |archive-date=16 June 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2016, US Defense Acquisitions Chief Frank Kendall confirmed that the tanker program office was studying the delay's cost to the USAF, and that it was entitled to consideration for losses from operating the KC-135 for longer than planned.<ref name="PentagonSeeksConsideration">{{cite news |last1=Mehta |first1=Aaron |title=Pentagon Seeks 'Consideration' for KC-46 Tanker Delay |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/show-daily/farnborough/2016/07/12/pentagon-seeks-consideration-kc46-tanker-delay-farnborough/86951964/? |publisher=Defense News |date=12 July 2016}}</ref>

On 8 June 2016, Boeing's defense unit CEO, Leanne Caret, reported that a modified boom would be flown shortly.<ref name="BoeingAims"/> On 10 July 2016, Caret reported positive results from early flight tests with the revised boom.<ref name="PentagonSeeksConsideration"/> On 21 July 2016, Boeing took a further $393 million charge on the program, bringing the total value of penalties to almost $1.9 billion. The charge reflected higher costs associated with the schedule and technical challenges, such as the boom axial load issue, delays in the [[Engineering:Type certificate|certification process]] and concurrency between testing and initial production.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Insinna |first1=Valerie |title=Boeing Racks Up Another $393M In Cost Overruns On KC-46 Program |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/air-space/air-force/2016/07/21/boeing-kc46-cost-overrun-penalty-air-force-boom/87409004/ |publisher=Defense News |date=21 July 2016}}</ref> The initial 18 KC-46s were equipped with the boom and centerline drogue, but not the wing-mounted wing-aerial refueling pods (WARP) needed for full contractual Required Assets Available, they were delivered separately later.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/breaking-news/2016/05/27/boeings-kc-46-tanker-miss-major-deadline/85039916/ |title=Boeing's KC-46 Tanker Will Miss Major Deadline |date=27 May 2016 |publisher=Defense News}}</ref>

On 5 July 2016, USAF spokesman Daryl Mayer stated that, despite the testing delays, Milestone C approval was expected in the following month, and that Boeing would add a fifth EMD aircraft to accelerate testing. EMD-1 and EMD-3 primarily conducted flight tests towards FAA airworthiness certificates, while EMD-2 and EMD-4 focused on USAF aerial refueling and mission system testing.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Seligman |first1=Lara |title=Boeing KC-46 Tests Moving 'Slower Than Planned' |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/boeing-kc-46-tests-moving-slower-planned? |publisher=Aviation Week |date=5 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160707005234/http://aviationweek.com/defense/boeing-kc-46-tests-moving-slower-planned |archive-date=7 July 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> An F-16 was successfully refueled on 8 July, and a C-17 on 12 July 2016. Once the hardware fix is verified, a KC-46 with the updated boom underwent regression testing on the F-16, followed by refueling demonstrations with the C-17 and A-10 for the final test for Milestone C approval.<ref name="RefuelsF-16">{{cite news |last1=Mehta |first1=Aaron |title=Reworked KC-46 Boom Refuels F-16, C-17 |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/show-daily/farnborough/2016/07/13/sources-reworked-kc-46-boom-refuels-f-16-c-17/87023048/? |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20160713143941/http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/show-daily/farnborough/2016/07/13/sources-reworked-kc-46-boom-refuels-f-16-c-17/87023048/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 July 2016 |publisher=Defense News |date=13 July 2016}}</ref><ref name="RefuelsF-16,">{{cite news |last1=Seligman |first1=Lara |title=KC-46 Successfully Refuels C-17 |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/kc-46-successfully-refuels-c-17? |publisher=Aviation Week |date=13 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160715001907/http://aviationweek.com/defense/kc-46-successfully-refuels-c-17 |archive-date=15 July 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> On 15 July 2016, the KC-46 successfully refueled an A-10, offloading 1,500 pounds of fuel at 15,000 feet. At the time, more than 900 flight test hours have been completed by the five EMD aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Erwin |first1=Sandra |title=Boeing's KC-46 Tanker to Receive Production Green Light |url=http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/blog/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=2251 |publisher=National Defense |date=18 July 2016}}{{Dead link |date=November 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> On 12 August 2016, the program received Milestone C approval, indicating production readiness. The issuing of contracts for two lots covering 19 aircraft was expected within 30 days.<ref>{{cite news |title=KC-46a approved for production |url=http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/913955/kc-46a-approved-for-production.aspx |publisher=U.S. Air Force |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161012080550/http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/913955/kc-46a-approved-for-production.aspx |archive-date=12 October 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:KC-46 refuels F-35 20190122.jpg|thumb|A KC-46A connects with an F-35A Lightning II over California, Jan. 2019.]]
In January 2018, Air Mobility Command stated that tests for final FAA certification were roughly 94 percent complete.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Panzino |first1=Charlsy |title=The Air Force's KC-46 tanker is almost ready for prime time |url=https://www.defensenews.com/news/your-air-force/2018/01/25/the-air-forces-kc-46-tanker-is-almost-ready-for-primetime|website=Defense News |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180127183934/https://www.defensenews.com/news/your-air-force/2018/01/25/the-air-forces-kc-46-tanker-is-almost-ready-for-primetime/ |archive-date=27 January 2018 |date=26 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> Boeing announced its FAA certification in September 2018, with military certification outstanding. Aircraft refueled during testing include the F-16, F/A-18, AV-8B, C-17, A-10, [[Engineering:McDonnell Douglas KC-10 Extender|KC-10]], [[Engineering:Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker|KC-135]] and the KC-46 itself.<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-09-04-Boeing-KC-46-Tanker-Program-Completes-FAA-Certification |title= Boeing KC-46 Tanker Program Completes FAA Certification |date= 4 September 2018 |publisher= Boeing |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180905071715/http://boeing.mediaroom.com/2018-09-04-Boeing-KC-46-Tanker-Program-Completes-FAA-Certification |archive-date= 5 September 2018 |url-status= live}}</ref> In January 2019, a KC-46 from the 418th Flight Test Squadron at Edwards AFB made connection with an [[Engineering:Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II|F-35A]], the occasion being the first time that the KC-46 connected with a fifth-generation jet fighter.<ref name="KC-46_first">{{cite web |last1=Thuloweit |first1=Kenji |title=KC-46 Pegasus connects with fifth-generation fighter |date=14 February 2019 |url=https://www.edwards.af.mil/News/Article/1758591/kc-46-pegasus-connects-with-fifth-generation-fighter/ |publisher=Edwards AFB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215050750/https://www.edwards.af.mil/News/Article/1758591/kc-46-pegasus-connects-with-fifth-generation-fighter/ |archive-date=15 February 2019 |access-date=15 February 2019 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all}}</ref> Completion of refueling certification of the F-35 by the KC-46 was announced by the 412th Test Wing in June 2019.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Casem |first1=Giancarlo |title=KC-46, F-35 completes receiver certification testing |date=4 June 2019 |url=https://www.edwards.af.mil/News/Article/1865682/kc-46-f-35-completes-receiver-certification-testing/ |publisher=412th Test Wing |access-date=5 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605190118/https://www.edwards.af.mil/News/Article/1865682/kc-46-f-35-completes-receiver-certification-testing/ |archive-date=5 June 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In March 2020, the USAF announced that chronic leaks in the fuel system had been upgraded to a Category I deficiency. The USAF identified the issue in June 2019, but had not originally believed it to be serious. Crews became aware of the issue when they discovered fuel between the primary and secondary fuel protection barriers. There was no known root cause at the time of the announcement.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Trevithick |first1=Joseph |title=The Air Force's Troubled KC-46 Tankers Leak Fuel Excessively |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/32818/the-air-force-has-revealed-that-its-troubled-kc-46-tankers-leak-fuel-excessively |website=thedrive.com |date=30 March 2020 |publisher=The Drive |access-date=31 March 2020}}</ref> By January 2021, Boeing's losses on the program were estimated at $5&nbsp;billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=5000000000|start_year=2021}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref name="FG2021-1">Reim, Garrett. [https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/boeing-delivers-14-kc-46a-tankers-in-2020-receives-contract-for-a-dozen-more/141931.article "Boeing delivers 14 KC-46A tankers in 2020, receives contract for a dozen more"]. Flight Global, 13 January 2021.</ref> At the time, it was expected that the KC-46 would not be combat ready until at least late 2023.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Weisgerber |first1=Marcus |title=Air Force Hunts for Ways to Use Not-Quite-Ready Tankers |url=https://www.defenseone.com/business/2021/02/air-force-hunts-ways-use-not-quite-ready-tankers/171785/ |work=Defence One |date=1 February 2021}}</ref>

==Design==
[[File:Seats inside a KC-46A Pegasus during 2023.jpg|thumb|Seats fitted in the interior of a KC-46A]]

The KC-46 Pegasus is a variant of the [[Engineering:Boeing 767|Boeing 767]] and is a widebody, low-wing cantilever monoplane with a conventional [[Engineering:Empennage|empennage]] featuring a single fin and rudder. It has a retractable [[Engineering:Tricycle landing gear|tricycle landing gear]] and a hydraulic flight control system. The Pegasus is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW4062 engines, one mounted under each wing. It has been described as combining "the 767-200ER's fuselage, with the 767-300F's wing, gear, cargo door and floor, with the 767-400ER digital flightdeck and flaps".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rogoway |first1=Tyler |title=Broken Booms: Why Is It So Hard To Develop & Procure A New USAF Tanker? |url=https://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/1700138531 |access-date=23 January 2020 |work=Foxtrot Alpha |publisher=Jalopnik |date=24 April 2015 |language=en-us}}</ref> The KC-46 uses a similar [[Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System]] (MCAS) to that implicated in two 737 MAX crashes; in March 2019, the USAF began reviewing KC-46 training due to this feature. Unlike the 737, the KC-46's MCAS takes input from dual redundant angle of attack sensors and disengages with stick input by the pilot.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2019/March%202019/USAF-Reviewing-Training-After-MAX-8-Crashes-KC-46-Uses-Similar-MCAS-System.aspx |title=USAF Reviewing Training After MAX 8 Crashes; KC-46 Uses Similar MCAS |website=airforcemag.com |language=en-US |date= March 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190323043919/http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2019/March%25202019/USAF-Reviewing-Training-After-MAX-8-Crashes-KC-46-Uses-Similar-MCAS-System.aspx |archive-date=23 March 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The flightdeck has room for a crew of four with a forward crew compartment with seats for 15 crew members and in the rear fuselage either palletized passenger seating for 58, or 18 pallets in cargo configuration. The rear compartment can also be used in an aero-medical configuration for 54 patients (24 on litters).<ref name="boeing" /> Quick ingress from the ground is available via a ladder that can be pulled down near the front landing gear.<ref name="fosters20190915">{{cite news |last1=McMenemy |first1=Jeff |title=A look inside the KC-46A |url=https://www.fosters.com/news/20190915/look-inside-kc-46a |access-date=16 September 2019 |publisher=Fosters.com |date=September 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190916174614/https://www.fosters.com/news/20190915/look-inside-kc-46a |archive-date=16 September 2019 |quote=There's also a compartment on the belly of the plane, which can be opened so crew can pull down a ladder, climb up, and quickly board the plane. "If you need to get inside faster you can climb up this ladder, step on a platform, climb up another ladder and end up in the floor of the plane," Zubricki said. |url-status=live}}</ref> The KC-46A can carry {{convert|212,299|lb|kg|abbr=on}} of fuel,<ref name=USAF_Fact_Sheet/> 10 percent more than the KC-135, and {{convert|65,000|lb|kg|abbr=on}} of cargo. Survivability is improved with infrared countermeasures and the aircraft has limited [[Social:Electronic warfare|electronic warfare]] capabilities.<ref name = "dodbuzz 2014"/> It uses manual flight controls, allowing unrestricted maneuverability to avoid threats anywhere in the [[Engineering:Flight envelope|flight envelope]].<ref>[http://www.finchannel.com/Main_News/Business/59816_Boeing_to_Offer_NewGen_Tanker_to_US_Air_Force_/ "Boeing to Offer NewGen Tanker to US Air Force"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711002356/http://www.finchannel.com/Main_News/Business/59816_Boeing_to_Offer_NewGen_Tanker_to_US_Air_Force_/ |date=11 July 2011}}. finchannel.com, 5 March 2010.</ref>

[[File:KC-46 Aerial Refueling Operator Station.jpg|thumb|Aerial Refueling Operator Station]]
At the rear of the KC-46 is a fly-by-wire refueling boom supplemented by wing air refueling pods at each wingtip and a centerline drogue system under the rear fuselage so it can handle both types of refueling in one mission.<ref name="boeing">{{cite web |url=https://www.boeing.com/defense/kc-46a-pegasus-tanker/ |title=KC-46 Pegasus |publisher=Boeing |access-date=6 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106204530/https://www.boeing.com/defense/kc-46a-pegasus-tanker/ |archive-date=6 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> The boom includes a hydraulic relief valve system, similar to those on the KC-10 and KC-767 tankers, to relieve axial pressure in the event of excessive loads building up on the boom.<ref name="BoeingAims">{{cite news |last1=Weisgerber |first1=Marcus |title=Here's How Boeing Aims To Fix Its Broken Tanker |url=http://www.defenseone.com/business/2016/06/heres-how-boeing-aims-fix-its-broken-tanker/128941/?oref=defenseone_today_nl |work=Defense One |publisher=Atlantic Media |date=8 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160612172839/http://www.defenseone.com/business/2016/06/heres-how-boeing-aims-fix-its-broken-tanker/128941/?oref=defenseone_today_nl |archive-date=12 June 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> In order to address the stiff boom issue, which keeps a KC-46 from refueling lightweight, thrust-limited receivers like the A-10, Boeing is replacing the current actuator with one using a pressure-flow PQ valve in the 2023 time frame.<ref name=newActuator>Hadley, Greg. [https://www.airandspaceforces.com/boeing-works-to-solve-kc-46-deficiencies-one-by-one/ (4 Jan 2022) "Boeing Works to Solve KC-46 Deficiencies, One by One"]. airandspaceforces.com</ref>

Rather than using a single boom operator seated or prone at the tail looking out a window, the Aerial Refueling Operator Station (AROS) seats two operators at the front of the tanker. AROS includes three main displays for each operator to display images from multiple multi-spectral cameras distributed around the aircraft. The central 2D/3D display provides a rear-facing view for boom refueling operations. Boom operators can execute their mission in total darkness with both aircraft blacked out.<ref name="thedrive"/> The hybrid 2D-3D system requires stereoscopic glasses to be fully effective.<ref name="thedrive"/>

The Remote Vision System (RVS) that feeds video to the AROS has been problematic, motion viewed in the RVS versus which can create a depth compression and curvature effect.<ref name="thedrive">{{cite web |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/27268/this-is-what-the-remote-boom-operators-station-on-a-kc-46-tanker-really-looks-like |title=This Is What The Boom Operator's Station On The New KC-46 Tanker Actually Looks Like We finally are getting a good look at the KC-46's most controversial feature.|date=2 April 2019 |publisher=The Drive |access-date=11 September 2022}}</ref> Blackouts and washouts on the displays during refueling, caused by shadows or direct sunlight are a problem that will be fixed by the RVS 2.0 upgrade along with depth perception issues via the use of new cameras and a full-color high-definition screen. Experienced boom operators of older tankers still prefer the KC-46, even with its current drawbacks.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.airforcemag.com/kc-46-boom-operators-learn-to-live-with-rvs-pending-2-0-upgrade/ |title=KC-46 Boom Operators Learn to Live With RVS Pending 2.0 Upgrade|date=9 August 2022 |publisher=Air Force Magazine |access-date=11 September 2022}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Operational history==
===United States===
[[File:First delivered KC-46 lands at McConnell AFB 20190125.jpg|thumb|The first delivered KC-46A (''15-46009'') lands at McConnell AFB in January 2019.]]

In April 2014, the USAF announced that the KC-46 will be based at {{wipe|McConnell Air Force Base}} in Wichita, Kansas, with an optimistic expectation of receiving the first of 36 tankers in 2016.<ref>[http://www.kwch.com/news/local-news/usaf-mcconnell-to-house-next-generation-tankers/25609696 "USAF: McConnell to house next generation tankers"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424130710/http://www.kwch.com/news/local-news/usaf-mcconnell-to-house-next-generation-tankers/25609696 |date=24 April 2014}}. KWCH, 22 April 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.kansas.com/2014/04/22/3418007/mcconnell-gets-final-ok-for-refueling.html "McConnell gets final OK for refueling tankers, prepares to spend $219 million for construction".] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424125018/http://www.kansas.com/2014/04/22/3418007/mcconnell-gets-final-ok-for-refueling.html |date=24 April 2014}} The Wichita Eagle, 22 April 2014.</ref> McConnell AFB was chosen because it had low construction costs and it is in a location with a high demand for air refueling, having KC-135s based there. In addition to McConnell AFB serving as the home base, up to 10 operating bases will be used by the KC-46. Crews will be trained at {{wipe|Altus Air Force Base}}, Oklahoma, which was also chosen for its limited construction needs and for its existing experience with training programs for the C-17 Globemaster and the KC-135.<ref>[http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20140423/NEWS05/304230056/Altus-selected-KC-46A-training "Altus selected for KC-46A training"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424203422/http://www.militarytimes.com/article/20140423/NEWS05/304230056/Altus-selected-KC-46A-training |date=24 April 2014}}. Militarytimes.com, 23 April 2014.</ref>

In October 2015, the USAF announced that {{wipe|Seymour Johnson Air Force Base}}, North Carolina, was chosen as the preferred alternative for the first Reserve-led KC-46A main operating base, with an anticipated arrival of the KC-46As at Seymour Johnson in fiscal year 2019. {{wipe|Tinker Air Force Base}}, Oklahoma; Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts; and Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana, were named as the reasonable alternatives. The October 2015 announcement also stated that the USAF intended to initiate an Environmental Impact Analysis Process (EIAP), which the USAF would use to make its final basing decisions.<ref name=Pegasus>{{cite news|author1=Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs |title=Seymour-Johnson chosen for first Reserve-led KC-46A basing |url=http://www.afrc.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/136/Article/626528/seymour-johnson-chosen-for-first-reserve-led-kc-46a-basing.aspx |work=Air Force Reserve Command |date=29 October 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126015922/http://www.afrc.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/136/Article/626528/seymour-johnson-chosen-for-first-reserve-led-kc-46a-basing.aspx |archive-date=26 January 2016 }}</ref>

On 10 January 2019, the USAF took delivery of the first KC-46, well past the original 2016 delivery date, albeit with two issues outstanding and funds withheld.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Air Force finally takes ownership of its first Boeing tanker — with serious misgivings |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/the-air-force-finally-takes-ownership-of-its-first-boeing-tanker-with-some-misgivings/ |website=The Seattle Times |date=10 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111232805/https://www.seattletimes.com/business/boeing-aerospace/the-air-force-finally-takes-ownership-of-its-first-boeing-tanker-with-some-misgivings/ |archive-date=11 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> The two outstanding issues were inadequate boom pressure when refueling the A-10 Warthog and glare induced distortion under certain conditions in the remote vision system (RVS). The USAF acknowledged that they failed to give Boeing adequate specifications for the A-10.<ref name="Forbes20190111">{{cite news |last1=Thompson |first1=Loren |title=Five Reasons The Air Force Has Begun Taking Delivery Of Boeing's KC-46A Pegasus Tanker |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/lorenthompson/2019/01/11/five-reasons-the-air-force-has-begun-taking-delivery-of-boeings-kc-46a-pegasus-tanker/#7d4ab0c35f3b |work=Forbes |date=11 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190111184737/https://www.forbes.com/sites/lorenthompson/2019/01/11/five-reasons-the-air-force-has-begun-taking-delivery-of-boeings-kc-46a-pegasus-tanker/ |archive-date=11 January 2019}}</ref> At milestone C, Boeing gave the USAF a boom design that used the international standard of 1400 lbs of thrust resistance, which they accepted, but the A-10 is only able to generate 650 lbs.<ref name="DN20190114">{{cite news |last1=Insinna |first1=Valerie |title=Boeing delivers first KC-46, but fixes to technical problems still years away |url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2019/01/10/boeing-delivers-first-kc-46-but-fixes-to-technical-problems-still-years-away/ |publisher=Defense News |date=10 January 2019}}</ref>

On 25 January 2019, the 22d Air Refueling Wing at McConnell AFB received its first two KC-46As (''15-46009'' and ''17-46031'').<ref name="22ARW1" /> In February 2019, the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus AFB received its first KC-46.<ref name="altus1stdelivery">{{cite web |last1=Scarle |first1=Kenny |title=Pegasus Wings its Way to 97 AMW |date=8 February 2019 |url=https://www.altus.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/1752232/pegasus-wings-its-way-to-97-amw/ |publisher=97 AMW Public Affairs |access-date=9 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209023703/https://www.altus.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/1752232/pegasus-wings-its-way-to-97-amw/ |archive-date=9 February 2019 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all}}</ref>

[[File:KC-46 first refuel of Navy Blue Angels.jpg|thumb|A KC-46 preparing to refuel the Navy Blue Angels over South Dakota, July 2020]]
In April 2019, it was confirmed that the USAF halted all deliveries on 23 March and until further notification, as loose material and debris were found in planes already delivered.<ref name="MC20190402">{{cite news |last1=Pawlyk |first1=Oriana |title=Air Force Again Halts KC-46 Tanker Deliveries |url=https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/04/02/air-force-again-halts-kc-46-tanker-deliveries.html |access-date=2 April 2019 |publisher=Military.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402221244/https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/04/02/air-force-again-halts-kc-46-tanker-deliveries.html |archive-date=2 April 2019}}</ref>

In August 2019, the 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease Air National Guard Base received its first KC-46A.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.seacoastonline.com/news/20190808/first-kc-46a-tanker-arrives-at-pease |title=First KC-46A tanker arrives at Pease |first=Jeff |last=McMenemy |website=seacoastonline.com |date=8 August 2019 |access-date=8 August 2019}}</ref>

In September 2019, the USAF restricted the KC-46 from carrying cargo and passengers due to an issue with the floor cargo locks unlocking mid-flight.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2019/09/11/air-force-restricts-kc-46-from-carrying-cargo-and-personnel/|title=US Air Force restricts KC-46 from carrying cargo and passengers|date=11 September 2019}}</ref> A fix was approved by the USAF in November 2019 and were retrofitted upon delivered aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2019/11/12/Cargo-lock-fix-for-KC-46-tanker-approved-by-US-Air-Force/1571573588799/|title=Cargo lock fix for KC-46 tanker approved by U.S. Air Force|website=UPI|language=en|access-date=13 November 2019}}</ref> By 20 December 2019, four KC-46As had received new cargo locks and the USAF had closed the Category 1 deficiency and cleared retrofitted aircraft for cargo and passenger operations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2019/12/20/the-kc-46-is-back-to-carrying-cargo-and-passengers/|title=The KC-46 is back to carrying cargo and passengers|last=Insinna|first=Valerie|date=20 December 2019|website=Defense News|language=en-US}}</ref>

In June 2020, the 916th Air Refueling Wing at {{wipe|Seymour Johnson Air Force Base}} received its first KC-46A.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|title=916th Air Refueling Wing Welcomes KC-46A Pegasus|url=https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2219320/916th-air-refueling-wing-welcomes-kc-46a-pegasus/|access-date=14 June 2020|website=Dobbins Air Reserve Base|date=12 June 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref> By January 2021, Boeing had delivered 42 KC-46As to the USAF and was on contract for 94 tankers.<ref name="FG2021-2">Reim, Garrett: [https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/boeing-wins-21bn-for-15-more-kc-46a-tankers-points-to-battle-communications-role/142077.article ''Boeing wins $2.1bn for 15 more KC-46A tankers, points to battle communications role''], Flight Global, 22 January 2021.</ref>

In early 2021, the USAF cleared the KC-46 for limited operational use. The type can conduct U.S.-based refueling only, requiring other tankers for deployments to combat areas. At the time, the KC-46 could refuel the B-52, F-15, F-16, and F/A-18, but it was not approved to service the A-10, F-22, F-35, B-1, or B-2. It is expected to be fully combat-ready by 2023.<ref name=DefN_limited_operations>[https://www.defensenews.com/smr/air-force-priorities/2021/02/24/despite-growing-pains-the-kc-46-will-begin-limited-operations-soon/ Despite growing pains, KC-46 tanker will begin 'limited operations']. ''Defense News''. 25 February 2021.</ref><ref>[https://www.airforcemag.com/air-mobility-command-to-start-integrating-kc-46-into-limited-operations/ Air Mobility Command to Start Integrating KC-46 Into Limited Operations]. ''Air Force Magazine''. 24 February 2021.</ref><ref>[https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2021/02/25/kc46-tanker-cleared-noncombat-flights/1981614296224/ Air Force clears KC-46A for limited, non-combat refueling]. ''United Press International''. 25 February 2021.</ref>

During September 2022, the USAF approved the KC-46 for general operational use, closing out a 15-month evaluation period.<ref name="amc20220919">{{ cite web |url=https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3162858/kc-46a-cleared-for-worldwide-deployments-following-first-combat-refuel/ |title=KC-46A cleared for worldwide deployments following first combat refuel |author=Air Mobility Command Public Affairs |date=2022-09-19 |work=Air Mobility Command, United States Air Force |accessdate=2022-09-21 }}</ref>

===Export bids===

==== Japan ====
[[File:N464KC taking off in October 2018.jpg|thumb|A KC-46 taking off from Yokota Air Base in Japan in October 2018]]

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) operates four of the earlier Boeing KC-767 tankers that were delivered from 2008 to 2010.<ref>{{Cite press release |url=http://boeing.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=1028 |title=Boeing Delivers 4th KC-767 Tanker to Japan Ministry of Defense |publisher=[[Company:Boeing|Boeing]] |date=12 January 2010 |language=en}}</ref> In October 2015, Japan selected the KC-46, with a contract for three tankers expected in 2016.<ref name="mod.go.jp">{{cite web |url=https://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2015/10/23a.html |script-title=ja:新たな空中給油・輸送機の機種決定について |trans-title=Decision on the model of new aerial refueling and transport aircraft |work=Ministry of Defense (Japan) |date=23 October 2015 |language=ja |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170322050427/http://www.mod.go.jp/j/press/news/2015/10/23a.html |archive-date= 22 March 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The decision allows for common operations and training with the USAF. Japan was reportedly attracted to its capability to refuel MV-22 Osprey [[Engineering:Tiltrotor|tiltrotor]]s, which the JASDF is to receive. Airbus declined to bid its A330 MRTT as they viewed Japan's request for proposals as intended for the KC-46.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=Japan chooses Boeing KC-46, halting Airbus tanker winning streak |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-chooses-boeing-kc-46-halting-airbus-tanker-wi-418170/ |work=Flightglobal |date=23 October 2015 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151025131826/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-chooses-boeing-kc-46-halting-airbus-tanker-wi-418170/ |archive-date=25 October 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2019/09/04/japan-seeks-improved-aerial-refueling-military-transport-capabilities-in-kc-46-funding-request/ |title=Japan seeks improved aerial refueling, military transport capabilities in KC-46 funding request |last=Yeo |first=Mike |date=4 September 2019 |website=Defense News |language=en-US |location=Melbourne, Australia}}</ref>

[[File:JASDF KC-46A (24-3612) fly over at Miho Air Base May 28, 2023 03.jpg|thumb|A Japanese KC-46 in 2023]]
The three tankers are to be fielded around 2020 at a cost of more than ¥20.8 billion, about US$173 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=173000000|start_year=2020}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) per aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Drew |first1=James |title=Japan chooses Boeing KC-46, halting Airbus tanker winning streak |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-chooses-boeing-kc-46-halting-airbus-tanker-wi-418170/ |work=Flightglobal |date=23 October 2015 |location=Washington DC |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151025131826/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/japan-chooses-boeing-kc-46-halting-airbus-tanker-wi-418170/ |archive-date=25 October 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2019/09/04/japan-seeks-improved-aerial-refueling-military-transport-capabilities-in-kc-46-funding-request/ |title=Japan seeks improved aerial refueling, military transport capabilities in KC-46 funding request |last=Yeo |first=Mike |date=4 September 2019 |website=Defense News |language=en-US |location=Melbourne, Australia}}</ref> An order for a third and fourth KC-46 was placed in October 2020.<ref name=":1" /> Japan ordered two additional KC-46s in December 2022, bringing Japan's order total to six.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Insight |first=Global Defense |date=2022-11-30 |title=Japan Orders Two More Boeing KC-46A Tankers |url=https://defensetalks.com/japan-orders-two-more-boeing-kc-46a-tankers/ |access-date=2022-12-04 |website=Global Defense Insight |language=en-US}}</ref> In February 2021, the JASDF conducted its first KC-46 flight.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://airrecognition.com/index.php/news/defense-aviation-news/2021/february/6922-first-japan-air-self-defense-force-boeing-kc-46-tanker-takes-flight.html |title=First Japan Air Self-Defense Force Boeing KC-46 tanker takes flight |date=10 February 2021 |website=Air Recognition |language=en}}</ref> Training of Japanese KC-46 pilots began in June 2021 and Japan received its first KC-46 in November 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://aviationweek.com/awin/program/1104 |title=Program Profile Boeing KC-46 |website=Aviation Week |access-date=7 October 2022}}</ref>

====India====
In January 2018, the {{wipe|Indian Air Force}} re-launched its air-to-air refueling procurement program, and sent out a [[Finance:Request for information|request for information]] for six refueling aircraft to Airbus, [[Company:Boeing|Boeing]], and Ilyushin, to which Boeing could respond with an offer for the KC-46 Pegasus.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Raghuvanshi |first1=Vivek |title=Third time's the charm? India again attempts to buy midair refuelers |url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2018/01/26/third-times-the-charm-india-again-attempts-to-buy-midair-refuelers/|website=Defense News |access-date=27 January 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180127161916/https://www.defensenews.com/air/2018/01/26/third-times-the-charm-india-again-attempts-to-buy-midair-refuelers/ |archive-date=27 January 2018|location=New Delhi |date=26 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> Airbus and Boeing responded to the request for information, while Ilyushin was disqualified as the official requirement is for an aircraft with two [[Engineering:Turbofan|turbofan]] engines.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Joshi |first1=Saurabh |title=Boeing KC-46, Airbus A330 MRTT in IAF tanker contest |url=https://www.stratpost.com/boeing-kc-46-airbus-a330-mrtt-iaf-tanker-contest/|website=StratPost |access-date=17 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180217211042/https://www.stratpost.com/boeing-kc-46-airbus-a330-mrtt-iaf-tanker-contest/ |archive-date=17 February 2018|location=New Delhi |date=15 February 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

In April 2022, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announced that it had entered into an MoU with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert passenger aircraft into multi-mission tanker transport (MMTT) aircraft in India.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/hal-israel-aerospace-tie-up-to-turn-civil-aircraft-into-mid-air-refuellers-122040700032_1.html | title=HAL, Israel Aerospace tie up to turn civil aircraft into mid-air refuellers | newspaper=Business Standard India | date=7 April 2022 | last1=Shukla | first1=Ajai }}</ref>

====Indonesia====
In January 2018, {{wipe|Indonesian Air Force}} officials were reported as saying they were studying both the Airbus A330 MRTT and KC-46 tankers for a future modernization program, expected to take place after the current [[Engineering:Airbus A400M Atlas|Airbus A400M Atlas]] program completes. The Indonesian Air Force is said to compare the tankers on compatibility with the force's current aircraft, life-cycle costs, interoperability with current and future assets, and potential funding and technology transfer options with state-owned aircraft manufacturer Indonesian Aerospace.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Rahmat |first1=Ridzwan |title=Indonesia puts KC-46A Pegasus, Airbus A330 in frame for aerial tanker requirement |url=http://www.janes.com/article/77173|website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=19 January 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20180119200042/http://www.janes.com/article/77173/indonesia-puts-kc-46a-pegasus-airbus-a330-in-frame-for-aerial-tanker-requirement |archive-date=19 January 2018|location=Singapore |date=18 January 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref>

====Israel====
In March 2020, the State Department approved the Foreign Military Sale to [[Place:Israel|Israel]] of eight KC-46s and related equipment for a cost of $2.4 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=2400000000|start_year=2020}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dsca.mil/major-arms-sales/israel-kc-46a-aerial-refueling-aircraft|title=Israel – KC-46A Aerial Refueling Aircraft {{!}} The Official Home of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency|website=dsca.mil|access-date=4 March 2020}}</ref> In September 2022, Boeing announced Israel has purchased four KC-46s for delivery in 2025.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Williams |first=Dan |date=2022-09-01 |title=Eye on Iran, Israel to buy four Boeing air force tankers for $927 million |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/boeing-says-israel-buy-four-air-force-refuelling-planes-927-mln-2022-09-01/ |access-date=2022-09-01}}</ref> The contract includes provisions to enable Israel to potentially purchase a further four KC-46s.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Frantzman |first1=Seth |title=Israel, Boeing agree to $927M deal for four KC-46A tankers |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2022/09/01/israel-boeing-prepare-to-sign-927m-deal-for-four-kc-46a-tankers/ |access-date=6 August 2023 |work=Defense News |date=1 September 2022 |language=en}}</ref>

====Italy====
In November 2022, it was reported that Italy is negotiating the purchase of six KC-46s, to be designated '''KC-767B''' by Italy, after deciding to forgo modernization work on the current fleet of four KC-767As. The purchase could include logistics support for the KC-46A fleet for a period of five years. The total cost of the contract could be approximately €1.12 billion. Italy's four KC-767As would be sold to Boeing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dubois |first=Gastón |date=2022-11-03 |title=Italy is negotiating the purchase of six Boeing KC-46A tankers |url=https://www.aviacionline.com/2022/11/italy-is-negotiating-the-purchase-of-six-boeing-kc-46a-tankers/ |access-date=2023-01-01 |website=Aviacionline.com |language=es}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cenciotti |first=David |date=2022-11-03 |title=Italy Will Buy Six KC-46 Tankers To Replace Its KC-767As |url=https://theaviationist.com/2022/11/03/italy-will-buy-six-kc-46-tankers/ |access-date=2023-01-01 |website=The Aviationist |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Failed bids===
====Canada====
In February 2017, Boeing stated it would bid the KC-46A for the {{wipe|Royal Canadian Air Force}}'s Strategic Tanker Transport Capability competition, which is to replace Canada's fleet of CC-150 Polaris tankers. The contract is valued at C$1.5+ billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.skiesmag.com/news/boeing-bid-kc-46-future-rcaf-tanker-program/ |title=Boeing to bid KC-46 on future RCAF tanker program - Skies Mag |access-date=3 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170203164154/https://www.skiesmag.com/news/boeing-bid-kc-46-future-rcaf-tanker-program/ |archive-date=3 February 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> In April 2021, [[Company:Airbus Defence and Space|Airbus Defence and Space]] and their submission of the [[Engineering:Airbus A330 MRTT|A330 MRTT]] was deemed to be the only qualified bidder to replace the CC-150.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Pugliese |first1=David |title=Airbus deemed only qualified supplier for new RCAF refueling and VIP aircraft |url=https://ottawacitizen.com/news/national/defence-watch/airbus-deemed-only-qualified-supplier-for-new-rcaf-refueling-and-vip-aircraft |access-date=9 April 2021 |publisher=Ottawa Citizen |date=1 April 2021}}</ref>

====Korea====
In June 2014, Boeing submitted the KC-46 for the {{wipe|Republic of Korea Air Force}}'s requirement for four aerial tankers. The KC-46 competed with the Airbus A330 MRTT.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hoyle |first1=Craig |title=Boeing offers KC-46 for South Korea tanker requirement |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-offers-kc-46-for-south-korea-tanker-requirement-400898/ |access-date=30 June 2014 |publisher=Flightglobal |date=30 June 2014 |location=London |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140713051744/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-offers-kc-46-for-south-korea-tanker-requirement-400898/ |archive-date=13 July 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> South Korea selected the Airbus A330 MRTT in June 2015.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/international/asia-pacific/2015/06/30/south-korea-selects-airbus-military-contract/29519825/ |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20150708083458/http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/international/asia%2Dpacific/2015/06/30/south%2Dkorea%2Dselects%2Dairbus%2Dmilitary%2Dcontract/29519825/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 July 2015 |title=South Korea Selects Airbus for $1.33B Tanker Contract |work=Defense News |date=30 June 2015 |access-date=30 June 2015 }}</ref>

====Poland====
Boeing pitched the KC-46 to the {{wipe|Polish Air Force}} for its tanker requirement.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Perry |first1=Dominic |title=Boeing eyes Poland as first KC-46A export buyer |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-eyes-poland-as-first-kc-46a-export-buyer-403307/ |access-date=3 September 2014 |publisher=Flightglobal |date=3 September 2014 |location=Warsaw |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904163609/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-eyes-poland-as-first-kc-46a-export-buyer-403307/ |archive-date=4 September 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> In December 2014, Airbus was awarded a contract for four A330 MRTTs from a consortium of Poland, the Netherlands, and Norway.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2014/12/24/airbus-leaps-ahead-of-boeing-in-race-for-airborne.html |title=Airbus leaps ahead of Boeing in race for airborne tanker exports |work=Puget Sound Business Journal |date=24 December 2014 |access-date=24 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226050710/http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2014/12/24/airbus-leaps-ahead-of-boeing-in-race-for-airborne.html |archive-date=26 December 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/european-partners-opt-for-airbus-military-tanker-1419013353 |title=European Partners Opt for Airbus Military Tanker |work=The Wall Street Journal |date=19 December 2014 |access-date=19 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141220084628/http://www.wsj.com/articles/european-partners-opt-for-airbus-military-tanker-1419013353 |archive-date=20 December 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>

====United Arab Emirates====
In May 2019, according to Boeing, the [[Place:United Arab Emirates|United Arab Emirates]] made a formal request to procure three KC-46As.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Yeo |first1=Mike |title=UAE issues formal request to buy KC-46A tanker, says Boeing |url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2019/05/31/uae-issues-formal-request-to-buy-kc-46a-tanker-says-boeing/ |website=Defense News |access-date=31 May 2019 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20190531215651/https://www.defensenews.com/global/mideast-africa/2019/05/31/uae-issues-formal-request-to-buy-kc-46a-tanker-says-boeing/ |archive-date=31 May 2019 |location=Singapore |date=31 May 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.arabianbusiness.com/transport/421409-uae-submits-request-to-buy-three-boeing-tanker-aircraft |title=UAE submits request to buy three Boeing tanker aircraft|last=McGinley|first=Shane|website=ArabianBusiness.com|language=en|access-date=6 September 2019}}</ref> In November 2021 the [[Place:United Arab Emirates|United Arab Emirates]] ordered two more Airbus A330 MRTTs for a total of five.<ref>{{cite web |title=United Arab Emirates orders two additional Airbus A330 MRTT |url=https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-11-united-arab-emirates-orders-two-additional-airbus-a330-mrtt |website=airbus.com |date=14 November 2021 |access-date=15 March 2023 }}</ref>

==Operators==
;{{ISR}}
*{{wipe|Israeli Air Force}} - 4 aircraft on order,<ref>{{Cite web |last= Gross |first= Judah Ari |title= Ministers sign off on pricey purchase of F-35s, refuelers and bombs |url= https://www.timesofisrael.com/ministers-sign-off-on-pricey-purchase-of-f-35s-refuelers-and-bombs/ |access-date= 16 February 2021 |website= www.timesofisrael.com |language= en-US}}</ref> out of 8 planned<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20190619-in-first-us-to-sell-new-aerial-re-fuelling-planes-to-israel/ |title= In first, US to sell new aerial re-fuelling planes to Israel |date= 19 June 2019}}</ref>
;{{JAP}}
*Japan Air Self-Defense Force - 2 of 4 aircraft on order delivered as of 24 February 2022<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Bixby |first=Tom |user=TomBixby4 |number=1503938288360603650 |date=15 March 2022 |title=Japan's second kc46 Pegasus was delivered on February 24th but it hasn't made any news site so there it is https://t.co/SADmT70ETZ |language=en |access-date=27 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220316033725/https://twitter.com/TomBixby4/status/1503938288360603650 |archive-date=16 March 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date= 1 November 2021 |title= Trick or Treat: Japan accepts its first KC-46 tanker |url= https://breakingdefense.sites.breakingmedia.com/2021/11/trick-or-treat-japan-accepts-its-first-kc-46-tanker/ |access-date= 17 November 2021 |website= Breaking Defense |language= en-US}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title= Japan orders two more KC-46A tanker planes |url= https://www.upi.com/Defense-News/2020/10/30/Japan-orders-two-more-KC-46A-tanker-planes/5331604076960/ |access-date= 30 October 2020 |website= UPI}}</ref>
;{{USA}}
*{{wipe|United States Air Force}} - 77 aircraft delivered<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Boeing Defense |user=BoeingDefense |number=1458113579706683398 |date=9 November 2021 |title=Twin tanker takeoffs! The first two #KC46 for @jointbasemdl have departed Boeing Field. These are the 49th and 50th KC-46 deliveries to the @usairforce. https://t.co/UYMr15tEEj |access-date=21 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211109165312/https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1458113579706683398 |archive-date=9 November 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |author=Boeing Defense |user=BoeingDefense |number=1527761901597368321 |date=20 May 2022 |title=Two more #KC46 tankers are in the air! Today's deliveries to @JointBaseMDL and @22ARW mark 59 KC-46 aircraft in service for the @USAirForce. Airmen are enabling global reach and rapid mobility, and we're proud to support them. https://t.co/jckIIgf30c |language=en |access-date=14 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=December delivery day|author=Boeing Defense|date=1 December 2023 |url=https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1730677254043177057 |access-date=2023-12-17 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |language=en}}</ref>
**{{wipe|Air Force Materiel Command}}
***412th Test Wing (AFMC) - Edwards AFB, {{wipe|California}} (2 on loan from McConnell AFB)<ref name="KC-46_first" />
****418th Flight Test Squadron
**Air Education and Training Command
***97th Air Mobility Wing (AETC) – Altus AFB, Oklahoma (aircrew training), full complement of 8 delivered as of 6 October 2021<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Altus Air Force Base |user=97AMW |number=1446518500722450438 |date=8 October 2021 |title=Welcome home to our final KC-46! @BoeingDefense @AETCommand @AETCcommandteam https://t.co/sA88ugkI2H |access-date=21 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211008165115/https://twitter.com/97AMW/status/1446518500722450438 |archive-date=8 October 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="AFMag20190520">{{cite web |last1= Everstine |first1= Brian |title= Boeing Delivers Three More KC-46s, USAF Fleet Now at 11 |date= 20 May 2019 |url= http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2019/May%202019/Boeing-Delivers-Three-More-KC-46s-USAF-Fleet-Now-at-11.aspx |publisher= Air Force Magazine |access-date= 21 May 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190521183546/http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2019/May%202019/Boeing-Delivers-Three-More-KC-46s-USAF-Fleet-Now-at-11.aspx |archive-date= 21 May 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date= 18 September 2020 |title= Boeing Negotiating Potential KC-46 Communications Upgrade |url= https://www.aviationtoday.com/2020/09/18/boeing-negotiating-potential-kc-46-communications-upgrade/ |access-date= 23 September 2020 |website= Aviation Today}}</ref>
****56th Air Refueling Squadron
***22d Air Refueling Wing (AMC) – McConnell AFB, {{wipe|Kansas}}, 23 of 36 delivered as of 20 May 2022<ref name="22ARW1">{{cite news |first= Michaela R. |last= Slanchik |url= https://www.mcconnell.af.mil/News/Article/1740512/mcconnell-afb-welcomes-first-kc-46a-pegasus/ |title= McConnell AFB welcomes first KC-46A Pegasus |publisher= McConnell Air Force Base |date= 25 January 2019 |access-date= 3 February 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190204065756/https://www.mcconnell.af.mil/News/Article/1740512/mcconnell-afb-welcomes-first-kc-46a-pegasus/ |archive-date= 4 February 2019 |url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.mcconnell.af.mil/News/Article/2055647/mcconnell-welcomes-kc-46-21-to-the-fleet/ |title= McConnell Welcomes KC-46 #21 to the Fleet! |website= McConnell Air Force Base |date= 13 January 2020 |language= en-US |access-date= 14 January 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Another #KC46 is on the way to @22ARW From first delivery to global deployment, #TeamMcConnell has been proving out the capabilities that make the Pegasus the most advanced multi-mission aerial refueler in the world.|url=https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1583543510732603407 |access-date=2023-09-19 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |language=en}}</ref>
****344th Air Refueling Squadron
***60th Air Mobility Wing (AMC) - Travis AFB, {{wipe|California}}, 6 of 24 have been delivered as of 8 December 2023<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seeing double |url=https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1733261744783376762 |access-date=2023-12-17 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |language=en}}</ref>
****6th Air Refueling Squadron
****9th Air Refueling Squadron
***305th Air Mobility Wing (AMC) - Joint Base McGuire–Dix–Lakehurst, 14 of 24 delivered as of 18 August 2023<ref>{{cite tweet |last=Bixby |first=Tom |user=TomBixby4 |number=1504875612523180040 |date=18 March 2022 |title=Delivery flight kc46 Pegasus for Mcguire dix lakenhurts their 6th of the future 24 that will be Station there https://t.co/InhCVORGJE |language=en |access-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220327015702/https://twitter.com/TomBixby4/status/1504875612523180040 |archive-date=27 March 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date= 14 November 2021 |title= KC-46 Arrivals Herald End of KC-10 Era at McGuire Even as Capacity Questions Persist |url= https://www.airforcemag.com/kc-46-arrivals-herald-end-of-kc-10-era-at-mcguire-even-as-capacity-questions-persist/ |access-date= 17 November 2021 |website= Air Force Magazine |language= en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Bixby |first=Tom |user=TomBixby4 |number=1537879895178522624 |date=17 June 2022 |title=Kc46 Pegasus on a delivery flight for the USA air force Their 61st tanker and Mcguire dix lakenhurts 8th of 24 delivered https://t.co/5og86UC8XU |language=en |access-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617192906/https://twitter.com/TomBixby4/status/1537879895178522624 |archive-date=17 June 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Friday flyaway |url=https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1692609264081105032 |access-date=2023-09-19 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |language=en}}</ref>
****2d Air Refueling Squadron
***108th Wing (ANG) - McGuire AFB, NJ
****141st Air Refueling Squadron
****170th Air Refueling Squadron
**{{wipe|Air Force Reserve Command}}
***916th Air Refueling Wing (AFRC) – Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina, Full complement of 12 delivered as of December 16th 2022<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Boeing Defense |user=BoeingDefense |number=1532785809555857408 |date=3 June 2022 |title=The 60th #KC46 is now in the @USAirForce fleet! This tanker is on the way to Seymour Johnson AFB, home of the @916ARW. https://t.co/wwlIJhbyvH |language=en |access-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220606202555/https://twitter.com/boeingdefense/status/1532785809555857408 |archive-date=6 June 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |last=Bixby |first=Tom |user=TomBixby4 |number=1504875244644933638 |date=18 March 2022 |title=Delivery flight kc46 Pegasus for Seymour Johnson afb their 10th of 12 they will receive https://t.co/9RJhZ52l1G |language=en |access-date=14 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220327015659/https://twitter.com/TomBixby4/status/1504875244644933638 |archive-date=27 March 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |author=Boeing Defense |user=BoeingDefense |number=1471928004981014528 |date=17 December 2021 |title=Two more #KC46 tankers are bound for @SJAFB. These are the 8th and 9th Pegasus aircraft for Seymour Johnson. https://t.co/O3KBKGlYVU |access-date=21 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211219182130/https://twitter.com/boeingdefense/status/1471928004981014528 |archive-date=19 December 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Special delivery for @916ARW |url=https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1603858452605968384 |access-date=2023-09-19 |website=X (formerly Twitter) |language=en}}</ref> Air Mobility Command
**** 6th Air Mobility Wing (AMC)
***** 911th Air Refueling Squadron – Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina (Active Duty Associate to the 916 ARW){{citation needed|date=December 2023}}
****77th Air Refueling Squadron
**Air National Guard
***157th Air Refueling Wing (ANG) – Pease ANGB, New Hampshire, full complement of 12 delivered as of 5 February 2021<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Boeing Defense |user=BoeingDefense |number=1337520781681684483 |date=11 December 2020 |title=Friday is a great day for a double #KC46 fly away. @157ARW here we come! https://t.co/fbJjwTcWDN |access-date=21 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201211221325/https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense/status/1337520781681684483 |archive-date=11 December 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.fosters.com/story/news/local/2021/02/05/final-kc-46-a-tanker-delivered-157th-air-refueling-wing-pease/4369755001/ |title= Final KC-46A tanker delivered to 157th Air Refueling Wing at Pease |first= Ian |last= Lenahan |website= Foster's Daily Democrat |location= Dover, New Hampshire |date= 5 February 2021}}</ref>
****133d Air Refueling Squadron

==Specifications==
{{Aircraft specs
|prime units? = imp
|ref=USAF KC-46A,<ref name=USAF_Fact_Sheet>[http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/FactSheets/Display/tabid/224/Article/104537/kc-46a-pegasus.aspx KC-46A Tanker Factsheet] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319220635/http://www.af.mil/AboutUs/FactSheets/Display/tabid/224/Article/104537/kc-46a-pegasus.aspx |date=19 March 2016}}. U.S. Air Force, February 2016.</ref> Boeing KC-767,<ref name=KC-767>[https://web.archive.org/web/20080528120519/http://www.boeing.com/ids/globaltanker/usaf/KC_767/767AdvProdCard.pdf KC-767 Advanced Tanker product card (archive copy)], [http://www.boeing.com/bds/globaltanker/docs/tanker_overview.pdf KC-767 International Tanker backgrounder] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812213828/http://www.boeing.com/bds/globaltanker/docs/tanker_overview.pdf |date=12 August 2011}}. Boeing.</ref> Boeing 767-200ER<ref>[http://www.boeing.com:80/commercial/767family/pf/pf_200prod.html 767-200ER specifications] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216045602/http://www.boeing.com/commercial/767family/pf/pf_200prod.html |date=16 February 2013}}. Boeing.</ref>
|crew= 3 (2 pilots, 1 boom operator) basic crew; 15 permanent seats for additional/optional air crew members, including aeromedical evacuation crew members
|capacity= seating for up to 114 people, 18 463L pallets, or 58 patients (24 litters, 34 ambulatory) and 65,000 lb (29,500 kg) payload
|length ft= 165
|length in= 6
|length m= 50.5
|span ft= 157
|span in= 8
|span m= 48.1
|height ft= 52
|height in= 1
|height m= 15.9
|empty weight lb= 181,610
|empty weight kg= 82,377
|max takeoff weight lb= 415,000
|max takeoff weight kg= 188,240
|more general= *'''Fuel Capacity:''' {{convert|212299|lb|kg|abbr=on}} <br />'''Fuel Capacity (vol):''' {{convert|31220|gal|L|abbr=on}} <br />'''Maximum Transfer Fuel Load:''' {{convert|207672|lb|kg|abbr=on}}
|eng1 name= Pratt & Whitney PW4062
|eng1 type=[[Engineering:Turbofan|turbofan]]
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 lbf= 62,000<ref name=KC-767/>
|eng1 kn= 275.8
|max speed mph= 570
|max speed kmh= 914
|cruise speed mph= 530
|cruise speed kmh= 851
|range nmi= 6,385
|range km= 11,830
|range note=; global with in flight refueling<ref name="KC-767"/>
|ceiling ft=40,100
|ceiling m=12,200
}}

==See also==
{{aircontent
|see also=
|related=
* [[Engineering:Boeing 767|Boeing 767]]
* [[Engineering:Boeing E-767|Boeing E-767]]
* [[Engineering:Boeing KC-767|Boeing KC-767]]
* [[Engineering:Northrop Grumman E-10 MC2A|Northrop Grumman E-10 MC2A]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Engineering:Airbus A310 MRTT|Airbus A310 MRTT]]
* [[Engineering:Airbus A330 MRTT|Airbus A330 MRTT]]
* [[Engineering:Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker|Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker]]
* EADS/Northrop Grumman KC-45
* [[Engineering:McDonnell Douglas KC-10 Extender|McDonnell Douglas KC-10 Extender]]
|lists=
* List of United States military aerial refueling aircraft
}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110228005404/http://www.boeing.com/Features/2011/02/bds_tanker_announcement_02_24_11.html Boeing.com Feature story on KC-46A contract award]
* {{cite web |url= http://www.af.mil/News/ArticleDisplay/tabid/223/Article/913955/kc-46a-approved-for-production.aspx?source=GovD |title=KC-46A approved for production |date=12 August 2016 |publisher=Secretary of the Air Force for Public Affairs |access-date=19 August 2016}}

{{Boeing support aircraft}}

[[Category:Twinjets]]
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]]

{{Sourceattribution|Boeing KC-46 Pegasus}}