Lucas, Cole Applaud KC-46 Tanker Delivery Agreement

Washington, D.C. – Representatives Frank Lucas (OK-03) and Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. Air Force and Boeing announced their respective agreement for the first KC-46 Tanker delivery in October 2018. Altus Air Force Base, in Lucas’ district, will be one of the first military installations to receive a delivery.

“The announcement of the first KC-46 Tanker deliveries is great news for Altus Air Force Base and the surrounding community,” said Congressman Lucas. "I am proud of the hardworking men and women at this base whose efforts have made Altus the best option for the KC-46A Formal Training Unit, and it is always encouraging to see projects like this generate economic growth in Oklahoma’s Third District. For 75 years, Altus AFB has played a critical role in our country’s national defense, and today we are excited to see that mission expand even further.”

“As a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I am thrilled that the KC-46 Tanker delivery schedule has been announced,” said Congressman Cole. "The Air Force and other services will greatly benefit from this highly capable aircraft, which is a militarized version of the Boeing 767. The ability to conduct in-flight refueling, as well as provide a cargo deck with three times as much cargo and twice as many passengers as the existing KC-135, is a tremendous improvement for our warfighters.”

In October, four KC-46 Tankers will be delivered to McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas, and then four will be delivered to Altus Air Force Base in Altus, Oklahoma.

In 2016, Tinker Air Force Base broke ground on its KC-46 Sustainment Campus which will be the location for repairs, maintenance and overhauls throughout the lifecycle of the tankers.