Air Mobility Command is repositioning several if its KC-135 simulators to improve access to them across the Total Force. These moves come as the Air Force is preparing to bed down the new KC-46A tanker. Among the changes, AMC is relocating one of the four KC-135 simulators at McConnell AFB, Kan., to Altus AFB, Okla., according to a May 1 release. This will create room at McConnell for the arrival of KC-46 simulators at a later date, states the release. McConnell is the Active Duty’s first main operating base for the KC-46. AMC also intends to shift a KC-135 operational flight trainer simulator from Pease ANGB, N.H., to Pittsburgh ANGB, Pa., in March 2016, states a second release. Pease is the Air National Guard’s first KC-46 MOB. Although the standup of the KC-46A fleet is a priority, the KC-135 remains the “backbone of our tanker fleet during this recapitalization process,” said Maj. Gen. Michael Stough, AMC’s director of strategic plans, requirements, and programs. AMC has 19 KC-135 pilot flight simulators and nine boom operator trainers at various locations, said officials.
President Donald Trump signed legislation reopening the federal government late Nov. 12, ending the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The move sets the stage for tens of thousands of defense civilians to return to work and guarantees troops will be paid in a few days’ time.
