Air Refueling Capability Modernization

The Air Refueling Capability Modernization program, outlined in Program Element (PE) 0605164F, is an Air Force initiative focused on research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced air refueling capabilities. The primary goal is to accelerate modernization and recapitalization of the aging tanker fleet, ensuring continued support for U.S. and coalition air operations worldwide. This modernization effort is essential for maintaining global reach and responsiveness, particularly as legacy KC-135 tankers are retired and replaced with more capable platforms.

The program aims to develop and field a new generation of air refueling tankers through the Continued Tanker Recapitalization RDT&E project. This effort bridges the gap between the current KC-46A tanker program and the future Next Generation Air-refueling System (NGAS). The recapitalized tankers are envisioned as commercial derivative aircraft with limited development requirements, capable of delivering fuel via both boom and drogue systems under all operational conditions. The total number of new tankers is dependent on ongoing analyses and the timeline for NGAS deliveries.

A key goal of the Continued Tanker Recapitalization RDT&E project is to ensure new tankers are equipped with advanced communication, navigation, and surveillance systems to support global operations. The program emphasizes survivability in chemical, biological, and hostile threat environments, incorporating both active and passive self-defense capabilities and enhanced battlespace awareness. These features are designed to enable tankers to operate effectively in contested environments and support a wide range of mission profiles, including deployment, sustainment, and redeployment of U.S. and allied forces.

The program supports a flexible and responsive approach to post-production enhancements and field support. This includes identification, design, integration, and sustainment of modifications such as avionics and structural updates, mission equipment upgrades, and corrections of field deficiencies. The program also addresses Combatant Commander Joint or Urgent Operational Needs, non-programmed Federal Aviation Administration directives, and requirements identified by higher headquarters initiatives like Air Superiority 2030 and Multi-Domain Command and Control.

In addition to technical development, the program funds a range of support activities, including market research, acquisition planning, business case analysis, and development of acquisition strategies. These activities inform future tanker development and help ensure the recapitalization effort aligns with evolving operational requirements and budget constraints. The program also supports mission planning capability development and various studies and analyses to guide decision-making.

The Air Refueling Capability Modernization program includes funding for civilian pay expenses necessary for program management and execution, supplementing other Air Force personnel accounts. Significant portions of the budget are allocated to both civilian pay and direct mission support. The program's RDT&E activities fall under Budget Activity 4, Advanced Component Development and Prototypes, reflecting the need to evaluate integrated technologies and prototype systems in realistic environments.

In FY 2026, the efforts and funding associated with this program element were transferred to the KC-46A Tanker Squadrons to enhance transparency and program alignment. This transfer reflects the evolving structure of the Air Force's tanker recapitalization strategy and the integration of modernization efforts into ongoing tanker production and sustainment activities.