Secretary Wynne notes, however, that it remains an open question how long the existing fleet of KC-135s will last. The AOA was supposed to provide some insight into the life expectancy of the KC-135s, but the fact the Wynne raised the point indicates there isn’t a definitive answer yet. He gave no hint as to when the Pentagon might reach a conclusion. He did say that the KC-135 overhaul operation at Tinker AFB, Okla., is keeping the aircraft going remarkably well.
The Air Force is renaming its traditional aviation bonus program in 2024 and continuing a new, experimental second program, ordered by Congress, aimed at getting aviators to extend their commitment sooner and for longer. While the programs can’t be doubled-up, aviators may be able to move from one to the…