Boeing Secures Contract for 15 More KC-46A Tankers as Global Fleet Grows

The KC-46A Pegasus program by Boeing is gaining traction as the U.S. Air Force orders 15 more aircraft under the Lot 12 production contract. Announced on 25 November 2025, this agreement is valued at US$2.47 billion, increasing the total number of KC-46A tankers delivered or contracted globally to 183.

According to Boeing, the new award provides critical production stability for the Pegasus line in Everett, Washington, particularly for long-lead components sourced through its extensive supplier network. “Getting on contract helps ensure production stability, including our long-lead supply chain, to continue delivering the unmatched capability of the KC-46A,” said Jake Kwasnik, Boeing’s vice president and KC-46 programme manager.

The KC-46A has transitioned from a developmental program to a crucial component of aerial refuelling for the U.S. and important allies. So far, Boeing has delivered 98 aircraft to the U.S. Air Force and six aircraft to the Japan Air Self-Defence Force. Additionally, Israel has ordered four aircraft as part of its efforts to update its ageing tanker fleet.

The U.S. Air Force's Pegasus fleet has now exceeded 150,000 total flight hours, reflecting the aircraft's rising operational pace. These hours include a combination of training, routine operational flights, and deployment missions globally. As the older KC-135 and KC-10 fleets age, the Pegasus is taking on an increasing portion of the refuelling responsibilities, despite earlier challenges in the program concerning the Remote Vision System and boom stiffness. Many of these issues have been resolved through ongoing upgrades and close cooperation between Boeing and the Air Force.

With 183 aircraft currently under contract worldwide, the KC-46A is proving to be the leading next-generation tanker for countries looking for a versatile platform that can function in more complex environments. In addition to traditional refuelling, the Pegasus provides cargo and passenger transport, aeromedical evacuation capabilities and advanced defensive systems.

The newest contract builds on years of gradual improvement efforts to broaden the KC-46A's operational capabilities. A significant achievement occurred in July 2024, when the U.S. Air Force granted Boeing a contract for upgrades in mission readiness and performance. These enhancements are mainly centred on communications, data connectivity, and situational awareness, which are vital for future contested operations.

The upgrade program features enhancements to secure communication systems, improved onboard data processing and refinements to support the U.S. Department of Defence's Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) vision. These improvements transform the Pegasus into more than just a traditional tanker; it serves as a networked battlefield node that can relay data, support multi-domain operations and integrate smoothly into complex mission environments.

For partner countries like Japan and Israel, these upgrades maintain ongoing interoperability with U.S. forces and secure long-term significance as future airpower strategies increasingly depend on data-rich, connected platforms.

Boeing highlights that securing Lot 12 helps stabilise its production line amidst supply-chain volatility in the defence aviation sector. The Pegasus program sustains thousands of jobs within Boeing's U.S. workforce and an extensive network of suppliers. As a significant U.S. exporter, Boeing underscores the economic influence of its defence programs, which are crucial in supporting America's industrial base.

Despite recent challenges in Boeing's commercial and defence sectors, the KC-46A remains a significant success. Ongoing capability enhancements, growing international interest, and robust operational performance have bolstered confidence in this platform.

As the U.S. Air Force advances its long-term plans for tanker recapitalisation, including the Next Generation Aerial Refuelling System (NGAS), the KC-46A will remain the core of the refuelling fleet for at least the next 20 years. With each new production batch, Boeing is nearing the completion of the Air Force's need for over 175 aircraft, a goal that is nearly achieved with the most recent order.

For global operators, the Pegasus provides a forward-looking solution that merges traditional refuelling functions with contemporary connectivity and multi-mission adaptability. The Lot 12 contract highlights the U.S. Air Force's trust in the platform and its critical role in sustaining global reach and air dominance.

Meanwhile, Boeing persists in promoting the KC-46A as the most advanced aerial refueler globally, destined to be pivotal in U.S. and allied air operations for the foreseeable future.