Japan orders additional KC-46A tankers
Japan is boosting its KC-46A tanker fleet up to six thanks to the latest contract award. (Photo: Boeing)
On 29 November, the US DoD announced the sale of an additional two KC-46A Pegasus air-to-air refuellers for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
The latest contract is worth $398.24 million. This brings to six the number of tankers on order, with their cumulative contractual value coming to $1.31 billion.
The US announcement listed a delivery deadline of 30 June 2025 for the Foreign Military Sales deal that will proceed via the USAF.
Will Shaffer, president of Boeing Japan, commented: ‘This additional KC-46A acquisition reinforces the US-Japan security alliance to support security and stability throughout the Pacific region.’
After a
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
Spain air report: Demand builds with $19.7 billion up for grabs in unawarded contracts
Despite Spain’s modest GDP spend on defence, the country still has a range of fixed-wing and UAV programme requirements as yet unawarded, with a potential US$3.10 billion set to be spent over the next decade.
-
Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026
The aerospace company’s 2025 performance figures revealed significant orders from various European armed forces and a boost in demand for its uncrewed offerings.
-
January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026
The first month of 2026 has seen activity in the MALE, rotary-wing, and loitering munition UAV markets, with significant investments and commitments from Germany, Turkey, the UAE and the US. At the same time, questions over loitering munition performance in Ukraine highlight the growing scrutiny alongside rising demand.