This article is based on an official press release from the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and additional reporting on fleet status.

USAF Accepts 100th KC-46A Pegasus, Marking Major Fleet Milestone at Travis AFB

The United States Air Force has officially accepted the delivery of its 100th KC-46A Pegasus tanker, a significant milestone in the service’s effort to recapitalize its aging aerial refueling fleet. The aircraft arrived at Travis Air Force Base, California, on December 2, 2025, piloted personally by Gen. Johnny Lamontagne, the commander of Air Mobility Command (AMC).

According to the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), this delivery represents a critical maturation point for the Pegasus program. The 100th aircraft flew in formation with the 99th KC-46A, which was piloted by Lt. Gen. John P. Healy, Chief of the Air Force Reserve. The dual arrival underscores the “Total Force” integration of Active Duty and Reserve components in operating the new tanker.

Travis AFB, known as the “Gateway to the Pacific,” is currently transitioning from the legacy KC-10 Extender to the KC-46A. The arrival of these jets solidifies the base’s role in supporting global reach operations in the Pacific theater.

A Symbolic Delivery for Air Mobility

The delivery event highlighted the operational readiness of the KC-46A fleet. Gen. Lamontagne’s participation as the pilot of the 100th jet served to demonstrate command confidence in the airframe. In a statement released by the Air Force, Gen. Lamontagne emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery.

“Today marks not just the arrival of the 100th KC-46 delivered, but the continued strengthening of our nation’s global reach and readiness. The Pegasus represents a key chapter in air mobility, one built on innovation and unwavering commitment to the mission.”

Lt. Gen. Healy, piloting the accompanying aircraft, highlighted the role of the Reserve forces in maintaining global mobility.

“The delivery of the 99th and 100th KC-46As underscores the Air Force Reserve’s ‘Ready Now’ commitment to airpower and rapid global mobility. Our combined Total Force ensures we can reach any spot in the world whenever and wherever our nation calls.”

Operational Status and Fleet Context

The KC-46A Pegasus is designed to replace the Air Force’s aging KC-135 Stratotankers and KC-10 Extenders. Manufactured by Boeing, the aircraft provides aerial refueling to most fixed-wing, receiver-capable aircraft, while also offering cargo, passenger, and aeromedical evacuation capabilities.

Combat Certification and Recent Missions

Since its first delivery to McConnell AFB in January 2019, the fleet has grown steadily over seven years. The aircraft received certification for worldwide deployment in September 2022. According to operational reports, the KC-46A has recently supported major combat operations in the Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility.

Notably, the fleet supported “Operation Midnight Hammer” in June 2025, a strike operation involving B-2 bombers. Furthermore, in mid-2024, the KC-46A demonstrated its endurance capabilities during “Project Magellan,” a 45-hour non-stop circumnavigation flight designed to test extreme global reach.

Program Challenges and Industrial Landscape

While the 100th delivery is a celebration of progress, the program has faced significant hurdles. The KC-46A has historically contended with “Category 1 deficiencies,” most notably issues regarding the Remote Vision System (RVS) used by boom operators to refuel aircraft. Fixes, such as RVS 2.0, are currently being implemented or scheduled.

Financially, the program is governed by a fixed-price contract. Consequently, Boeing has absorbed approximately $7 billion in cost overruns associated with delays and technical corrections. Despite these challenges, the Air Force maintains a program of record for 179 aircraft, with recent acquisition strategies suggesting the fleet could eventually expand to 263 airframes under a “Tanker Production Extension.”

AirPro News Analysis

The arrival of the 100th KC-46A is more than a numerical achievement; it signals a shift from “developmental struggle” to “operational backbone.” For years, headlines regarding the Pegasus were dominated by technical deficiencies and financial losses. However, the active deployment of the airframe in operations like Midnight Hammer and the high-profile piloting by top AMC leadership suggests the Air Force considers the platform fully viable for modern conflict.

With Travis AFB now receiving these tankers, the focus shifts toward the Pacific. The base’s location is pivotal for potential operations in the Indo-Pacific region, where the KC-46A’s cargo and aeromedical versatility will be as critical as its fuel capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the KC-46A Pegasus?
The KC-46A is a multi-role tanker designed for aerial refueling, cargo transport, passenger movement, and aeromedical evacuation. It replaces the KC-135 and KC-10.

How many KC-46A aircraft does the Air Force plan to buy?
The current program of record calls for 179 aircraft. However, future acquisition plans could see this number rise to 263.

What bases currently operate the KC-46A?
The aircraft is operated by Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve units at bases including McConnell AFB (Kansas), Altus AFB (Oklahoma), Pease ANGB (New Hampshire), Seymour Johnson AFB (North Carolina), Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (New Jersey), and Travis AFB (California).

Sources

• Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC)
• Air Mobility Command (AMC)