Boeing Resumes Deliveries of KC-46 to US Air Force

Boeing is once again delivering the KC-46 to the US Air Force, having resolved quality issues with fuel tanks as the company manages broader supply chain challenges. The KC-46 is a multi-role aerial refueling aircraft based on the Boeing 767-200ER commercial jet.

The company delivered the 50th KC-46 to the US Air Force in November 2021, and plans to deliver 15 more by the end of the year. Boeing has a contract to deliver 179 KC-46s to the US Air Force by 2027, and has also sold four to Japan.

The delivery of the KC-46 was delayed by several issues, including foreign object debris found in the fuel tanks, wiring problems, and defects in the remote vision system that allows the boom operator to control the refueling process. Boeing said it has fixed these issues and is working closely with the US Air Force to ensure the quality and safety of the aircraft.

However, Boeing is also facing supply chain challenges that affect its production and delivery of commercial and military aircraft. The company said it is experiencing labor instability, supplier disruptions, and material shortages due to the pandemic and other factors.

“We continue to see operational impacts from labor instability and supply chain disruption and other programs that contributed to lower margins,” said Brian West, executive vice president and CFO of Boeing.

Despite these challenges, Boeing said it remains committed to delivering the KC-46 and supporting its customers. The KC-46 is designed to provide air refueling, cargo transport, and medical evacuation capabilities for the US Air Force and its allies.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, boeing.com, airforce-technology.com