Six KC-135s were forced to leave McConnell AFB, Kan., and find temporary refuge in the Inland Northwest due to projected severe weather. The Stratotankers landed at Fairchild AFB, Wash., on April 26, along with 36 aircrew and support personnel. The KC-135s went to Fairchild because it is already a KC-135 base, with ample ramp space, logistical capabilities, and maintenance facilities, according to a Fairchild release. Three RC-135 Rivet Joints and one E-4B National Airborne Operations Center from Offutt AFB, Neb., also relocated to Fairchild last week because of projected weather.
Boeing received a $2.47 billion Air Force contract Nov. 25 for 15 more KC-46s, bringing to 183 the number of Pegasus tankers on contract to all customers, foreign and domestic. The new contract—for Lot 12 of the initially planned KC-46 buy—is to be completed by 2029.
