Made to Order for the U.S. Air Force
Written by Rick Lemaster
Boeing is looking forward to the KC-X tanker competition, and we are encouraged by the Air Force’s emphasis on ensuring a transparent process. We are listening closely to what the Air Force is saying and understand that an open and frank dialogue between the Department of Defense and industry partners is essential to ensuring that the warfighter receives the best equipment.
Since the requirements have not been released, Boeing hasn’t yet settled on a particular aircraft that we will bid in the KC-X competition. Needless to say, Boeing has developed quite a few options to fit different needs during the course of six decades of designing, building and delivering advanced tanker aircraft.
So in that spirit, we are calling our tanker bid the KC-7A7. What does the “A” stand for? The “A” signifies Boeing’s unique ability to design and manufacture an advanced tanker that will fit the Air Force’s requirements to a tee. In particular, the KC-7A7 represents a variety of tanker proposals based on two outstanding Boeing airframes: the Boeing 767 and 777.
It all depends on what the Air Force wants.
If the Air Force requires an agile, flexible wide-body tanker that excels in an austere, expeditionary environment, the 767- based tanker is a powerful and proven tanker. Based on mission scenarios, it can offload 20 percent more fuel, carry three times more cargo and transport five times more passengers than the KC-135. The KC-767 combines wide-body cargo capabilities with a narrow-body footprint, making it an ideal replacement for the KC-135.
However, if the Air Force’s requirements place more importance on fuel, cargo and passenger capacity, the 777-based tanker offers superior capability. In virtually the same footprint as similarly sized A-330 aircraft, the KC-777 can deliver 23 percent more fuel, 44 percent more cargo, 42 percent more passengers, in a more reliable and technologically advanced airframe.
Regardless of which Boeing airframe best meets the Air Force’s requirements, the Boeing tanker will benefit from the kind of proven technology that only comes with 60 years of experience in delivering or modifying over 2,000 tankers, many of which are still excelling in missions across the globe. Boeing’s tanker will incorporate its fifth-generation refueling boom—the most advanced of its kind. It will boast a proven hose-and-drogue system and a state-of-the-art flight deck.
Boeing is looking forward to the KC-X tanker competition. We’re excited to work with the Air Force in responding to this critical need. Most importantly, Boeing is proud to be able to offer the best combination of size and capabilities, which we can then tailor to build a tanker that is literally made to order for our nation’s warfighters. ♦
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Rick Lemaster is the Boeing Co.’s KC-X Air Force tanker program manager.