TOPEKA (KSNT) - The U.S. Air Force (USAF) announced that it has selected seven bases, including Forbes Field, as potential candidate locations for the newest aerial refueling aircraft.
The USAF announced on Oct. 3 that Topeka's Forbes Field Air National Guard base was one of seven bases selected as a possible candidate to host the KC-46A Pegasus, an aircraft that will replace the KC-135 Stratotanker; an aircraft that has served the Air Force for over 60 years.
The Air Force anticipates the decision to locate the KC-46A will be made in 2027 with the first of eight planes scheduled to arrive by 2031.
"KC-46s will replace KC-135 Stratotankers at the final decision location and bring enhanced capabilities, such as boom and drogue refueling on the same sortie, worldwide navigation and communication, cargo capacity on the entire main deck floor, receiver air refueling, improved force protection, and multi-point air refueling capability."
USAF press release excerpt
The KC-46A can refuel most fixed-wing, receiver-capable airplanes mid-flight, according to the USAF. The aircraft have a variety of uses including refueling, passenger transport, medical evacuations and cargo-carrying capabilities. The aircraft can carry up to 65,000 pounds of cargo.
Candidate locations are:
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