KC-46 Pegasus

Enhanced air refueling capability

The KC-46A boasts a fly-by-wire boom with independent disconnect and automatic load alleviation as well as both centerline and wing-mounted hose-and-drogue systems.

Robust receiver certifications

Twenty-eight boom and drogue receivers certified, including foreign receiver clearances in CENTCOM and EUCOM supporting coalition operations worldwide for F-35, F-18, AV-8, F-16, F-15QA and P-8.  

Receives fuel

Unlike many existing tankers, the KC-46A can also receive fuel, which significantly extends the range and flexibility of global mobility and power projection maneuvers.

Three times larger receiver envelope

The KC-46A boom provides a receiver envelope three times larger than the KC-135.

212,000 pounds fuel capacity

The KC-46A’s 212,000 pounds (96,162 kilograms) of fuel capacity enables the full spectrum of refueling missions.

Large cargo doors and cargo rollers

The KC-46A's 212,000 pounds (96.162 kilograms) of fuel capcity enables the full spectrum of refueling missions.

Two-hour conversion

The KC-46A can convert between cargo, passenger and aeromedical evacuation modes in just two hours — with cargo rollers – and is compatible with all U.S. Air Force loaders. Emergency oxygen and electrical power for medevac support included.

Spacious crew compartment

Contains enough space for 15 crew members, bunks, storage, a galley and a lavatory.

Passenger

• Two times more passengers than the KC-135
• FAA certified for 58 passengers, 114 for contingency operations
• C-17 palletized seating
• Palletized Air Transportable Galley/Lavatory and passenger bags

Cargo

• Three times more pallets than the KC-135
• Seamless integration with Defense Transportation System
• Eighteen 463L pallets, 10 pallets centerline configuration
• Integrated roller system
• Compatible with all U.S. Air Force loaders

Aeromedical evacuation

• Thirty percent more patients than the KC-135
• Twenty-four litter/30 ambulatory
• Six-patient integrated capability
• Onboard emergency oxygen and electrical power

Robust supply chain

Supported by a robust KC-46 supply chain that includes more than 650 American businesses and 37,000 American workers throughout more than 40 U.S. states, the current production line in Everett, Washington, is delivering mission-ready aircraft today.

Twenty-five percent less operating costs

The operating cost of four KC-46A tankers is the same as just three larger refuelers, so operators can have more booms in the air and bring more fuel to the fight.

Longer lifespan

Built as a combat-ready tanker from day one of production, the KC-46A has a longer lifespan and a reduction in the airframe corrosion that can occur in postproduction modification.

Economy of scale

Fleet commonality and interoperability leverages economy of scale for the U.S. Air Force and allies.

Proven powerful platform

Based on the 767 Freighter, and paired with Pratt & Whitney PW4062 engines with 62,000 pound-force thrust per engine and 120 kilovolt-amperes generations, the KC-46A is both powerful and fuel efficient.

Data delivery

Certified and flight-test-proven wing air refueling pods integrate Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) capability to make the KC-46A fleet a “connectivity hotspot” at the tactical edge. 

Battlespace awareness

Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) provides integration tactical situational awareness and real-time information superiority using large Boeing 787-style 15-inch displays, allowing pilots to quickly optimize flight parameters.

Multilayered protection

Electromagnetic pulse; nuclear, chemical and biological hardening; flight deck armor; along with armoring and countermeasures provide added protection.

Utilization

Onboard aircraft health diagnostic systems provide real-time health monitoring and improve operational availability and mission capability.

Evolving

As the needs of the mission evolve, the KC-46A can efficiently integrate new capabilities and advanced technology thanks to its in-line production. The Air Force and Boeing are investing in a Block 1 upgrade of additional advanced communications capabilities to further enhance the Pegasus’ data connectivity and situational awareness.

Defensive systems

Infrared countermeasures, radio frequency warning and night vision lighting for covert operations give the aircraft the defensive edge.