“Balance” to be struck between KC-46As and NGAS programme, says USAF chief of staff nominee
The USAF first contracted Boeing for KC-46A tankers in 2011. (Photo: USAF)
Gen Kenneth Wilsbach responded to questions about the US Air Force’s ongoing modernisation plans during his nomination hearing, emphasising the need for the current and future aerial refuelling platforms.
US chief of staff nominee Gen Wilsbach has emphasised the crucial need to continue the steady modernisation of the US Air Force (USAF)’s tanker fleet, as the country looks to speed up the progress of both its KC-46A acquisition and its Next Generation Air-Refuelling System (NGAS) programme.
Nominated by President Donald Trump to replace USAF chief of staff Gen David Allvin, who will retire in November 2025, Gen Wilsbach responded to questions from senators about the essential need to meet aerial refuelling demand.
According to the USAF, it currently has a fleet of 466 tankers which must be maintained to
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist]()
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
-
![British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty]()
British Army’s Project Corvus selection highlights new era of drone sovereignty
The UK’s choice of the Tekever AR5 for Project Corvus reflects a wider shift in military drone procurement towards solutions that centre on sovereignty and domestic production, moving away from overseas reliance.
