Meet the World's Most Advanced Multi-Mission Aerial Refueling Aircraft
Built to meet the requirements of the U.S. Air Force and allies for the full spectrum of missions, the combat-ready KC-46 Pegasus air refueling plane delivers proven multi-mission capabilities today, and continues to evolve to meet the needs of tomorrow.
#KC46 today
Operating globally
The KC-46A tanker is approved by the U.S. Air Force for global deployments, including combat operations. With more in service globally than any tanker except the Boeing-built KC-135, the KC-46A is delivering fuel, data and multi-mission capability for the U.S. and allies around the globe.
U.S.: 68 tankers
To date, Boeing has delivered 68 KC-46A tankers to the U.S. Air Force.
Japan: 2 tankers
Boeing has delivered two KC-46A tankers to Japan, of the six on contract.
Israel: 4 tankers on contract
Currently, four KC-46A tankers are on contract to be delivered to Israel.
Fuels the full spectrum of missions
The KC-46A delivers more fuel at all ranges and from shorter runways than the KC-135 aircraft it’s replacing — while utilizing less ramp space than competing tankers — ensuring mission reach from forward and austere airfields.
Currently, KC-46A air refueling receiver certifications include: AV-8B, B-1, B-2, B-52, C-5, C-17, C-130, C-135, CV-22, E-3, E-8, EA-18, F-15, F-16, F/A-18, F-22, F-35, KC-10, KC-46, KC-135, P-8A and V-22.
The combat-readiness and agile-combat-capable design of the KC-46A enables more booms in the air throughout the operational theater, making it the ideal aircraft for refueling missions.
- 3X larger receiver envelopeThe KC-46A boom provides a receiver envelope three times larger than the KC-135.
- 212,000 lbs The KC-46A’s 212,000 pounds (96,162 kilograms) of fuel capacity enables the full spectrum of refueling missions.
- 100M+ lbsThe proven KC-46A has offloaded more than 100 million pounds (45 million kilograms) of fuel to receivers globally.
Connects and protects the fleet
As a connectivity hub at the tactical edge, the KC-46A provides data as well as fuel to the joint force.
Armed with data links and Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) integration, the Pegasus tanker connects multi-domain warfighters, providing tactical situational awareness and real-time information superiority.
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 combat-ready KC-46A features layers of defensive countermeasures to detect, avoid, defeat and survive threats.
- Combat readyDefensive countermeasures strengthen ability to deliver fuel and data at the tactical edge.
- Battlespace awarenessThe KC-46A provides unmatched tactical situational awareness to the crew and relays real-time data to the fleet.
- Unparalleled protectionNuclear, chemical and biological hardening and flight deck armor provide added protection.
Serves the highest-priority air-to-air refueling missions
The KC-46A is the only tanker to meet the stringent Federal Aviation Administration and U.S. Air Force airworthiness and performance requirements. It is operationally supporting the highest-priority missions, including providing presidential support, and performing real-world operations.
In addition, the proven boom and hose-and-drogue systems are capable of refueling all U.S., allied and coalition aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures.
With its track record of success, the KC-46A is proven for today’s missions.
- Proven and operational nowThe KC-46A is approved by U.S. Air Force for all global mission deployments, including combat operations.
- More booms in the airFour KC-46A tankers can be used for the same operating cost of three larger refuelers, meaning more booms in the air and more fuel where it’s needed.
- 5M+ lbs of fuelEvery month, the KC-46A flies more than 400 sorties and offloads more than five million pounds (22.7 million kilograms) of fuel to receivers globally.
Adapts for rapid mobility
The KC-46A can convert between cargo, passenger and aeromedical evacuation modes in just two hours — with emergency oxygen and electrical power for medevac support included — and is compatible with all U.S. Air Force loaders.
With a large cargo door and cargo rollers, the KC-46A is adaptable to rapid cargo loading and mission versatility.
When compared to the KC-135 it holds:
- 3X more palletsThe KC-46A holds as many pallets as a C-17.
- 2X more passengersWith ample room for passengers, the KC-46A can hold twice as many people as the KC-135.
- 30% more medevac capacityThe KC-46A can hold 30% more patients than the KC-135.
Delivers life-cycle value
Built as a tanker from day one, the KC-46A has a longer lifespan and a reduction in the airframe corrosion that can occur in post-production modification. Furthermore, fleet commonality and interoperability leverages economy of scale for the U.S. Air Force and allies.
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.
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, WA, is delivering mission-ready aircraft today.
Ultimately, the in-production KC-46A has lower acquisition, operations and sustainment costs than any existing widebody aerial refueler and represents the best value over its total lifecycle.
- 5 U.S. Air Force basesCurrently, five U.S. Air Force bases operate the KC-46A.
- 40+ U.S. statesThe KC-46 supply chain includes 40+ U.S. states.
- InteroperabilityWith more than 120 on contract and more than 65 in service globally, the KC-46 offers unrivaled interoperability for mission success.
Technical specifications
Capabilities overview
Discover the capabilities of the KC-46A, the world’s most advanced multi-mission aerial refueler.
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Multi-layered protection
Electromagnetic pulse (EMP), chemical and biological hardening, along with armoring and countermeasures, provide unparalleled combat readiness on the KC-46A.
Spacious crew compartment
The KC-46A contains enough space for 15 crew members, bunks, storage, a galley and a lavatory.
Superior situational awareness
Large Boeing 787-style 15-inch displays allow pilots to quickly optimize flight parameters for critical decision-making and mission success.
Delivers data
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.
State-of-the-art defensive systems
Infrared countermeasures, radio frequency warning and night vision lighting for covert operations give the aircraft the defensive edge.
Enhanced 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.
Proven powerful platform
Based on the 767 freighter, and paired with Pratt and Whitney PW4062 Engines with 62K thrust per engine and 120 kVA generations, the KC-46A is both powerful and fuel efficient.
Higher utilization
Onboard aircraft health diagnostic systems provide real-time health monitoring and improve operational availability and mission capability.
- KC-46 Specifications
| Width | 156 ft 1 in (47.5 m) | Length | 165 ft 10 in (50.5 m) |
| Height | 52 ft 10 in (16.1 m) | Engines | Two Pratt & Whitney PW 4062 with 62,000 lbf (289.13 kN) thrust |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 415,000 lbs (188,241 kg) | Maximum Landing Weight | 310,000 lbs (140,614 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 212,299 lbs (96,265 kg) | Maximum Air Speed | 0.86 Mach (650 mph) |
Meet the team and the KC-46
Veteran follows KC-46A back to the desert
April 25, 2023 in Defense
Jaime Garcia still supports the U.S. Air Force’s global mission at the same base where he once served.
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KC-46 U.S. Supplier Spotlight: Sensor Systems LLC
April 18, 2023 in Defense, Our Partners
Sensor Systems is one of more than 650 suppliers in 43 states that supports the KC-46 program and helps fuel the U.S. Air Force’s global mission.
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Two Marines and the KC-46 supply chain
April 4, 2023 in Defense
Using skills they developed in the Marine Corps, two veterans work side by side with suppliers across the country to build the world’s most advanced multi-mission aerial refueler.
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Delivering Data and Fuel to the Fight
April 3, 2023 in Defense
How Boeing is Enabling KC-46 for Tomorrow’s Command and Control Network.
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KC-46 U.S. Supplier Spotlight: Pacific Component Xchange
March 22, 2023 in Defense, Our Partners
Pacific Component Xchange is one of more than 650 suppliers across 43 states that supports the KC-46 program and helps fuel the U.S. Air Force’s global mission.
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KC-46A charging into new year with momentum
March 1, 2023 in Defense
Air Mobility Command leader highlights a momentous 14 months for the KC-46A.
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KC-46 U.S. Supplier Spotlight: Advanced Ground Systems Engineering, LLC
February 21, 2023 in Defense, Our Partners
Advanced Ground Systems engineering is one of 650 suppliers across 43 states that support the KC-46 program and help fuel the U.S. Air Force’s global mission.
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KC-46A Family Connection
January 10, 2023 in Our People
U.S. Air Force captain flies the Pegasus that her Boeing cousins build.
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KC-46 U.S. Supplier Spotlight: PSI Solutions, Inc.
December 12, 2022 in Defense, Our Partners
PSI Solutions is one of more than 650 KC-46A Pegasus suppliers in communities across the nation that deliver critical components to assemble the world’s most advanced multi-mission aerial refueler.
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KC-46A “is the game-changer”
October 31, 2022 in Defense
Customer salutes Boeing’s Team Tanker before his final flight.
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From ‘humble’ beginnings to team lead: How a KC-46A modification electrician found success at Boeing
September 21, 2022 in Our People
Chris Beers followed his childhood passion across the country to play a vital role in building the world’s most advanced aerial refueler.
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Veteran gives KC-46A stamp of approval
May 31, 2022 in Defense
Kareem Foster is one of the last people “to put eyes on” each KC-46A Pegasus before delivery. It’s a responsibility that energizes the 20-year Army veteran and his team.
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KC-46A Pegasus Supports Missions Around the Globe
May 23, 2022 in Defense
The Air Force has been putting the multirole Pegasus to work across a spectrum of operational missions.
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Boeing Delivers 50th KC-46A to U.S. Air Force
January 13, 2022 in Defense
See the history-making arrival of the first two KC-46A tankers to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
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Boeing Delivers First KC-46A Tanker to Japan
October 31, 2021 in Defense
First international KC-46A delivery.
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Boeing KC-46A Tanker for Japan Completes First Refueling Flight
August 16, 2021 in Defense
First KC-46A for a non-US customer gives and receives fuel with another KC-46A.
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KC-46: Meeting Tomorrow’s Needs Today
July 14, 2021 in Defense
The KC-46A Pegasus is adding another line to its resume. Beyond aerial refueling and the transportation of passengers, cargo and patients.
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Boeing’s First Japan KC-46 Tanker Takes Flight
February 9, 2021 in Defense
First KC-46 for an international customer completes successful first flight.
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15 More Boeing KC-46 Tankers to Fuel the Air Force into the Future
January 21, 2021 in Defense
New multirole tanker contract brings number of U.S. Air Force orders to 94.
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First KC-46 tanker delivered to Seymour Johnson AFB
June 12, 2020 in Defense
On June 12, Boeing delivered its 34th KC-46 Pegasus tanker to the U.S. Air Force, the first to be stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.
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Boeing honors Gold Star family at KC-46 delivery
March 5, 2020 in Defense
Tribute to Air Force staff sergeant who served as tanker boom operator
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Senior Air Force official calls Boeing a 'US icon'
December 9, 2019 in Defense
Boeing-USAF team clears flight-test milestones
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