AFA Welcomes Tanker Decision by Air Force
Arlington, VA – The Air Force Association today applauded the decision by the U.S. Air Force selecting a future tanker to replace the aging KC-135 fleet.

The aircraft of the KC-135 fleet average 46 years old already, and even when production begins on new tankers, the Air Force will depend on KC-135s for decades to come. AFA leaders said that beginning production of new tankers is crucial to maintaining the capability to project airpower around the globe.

“This timely decision clears the way for production to begin. A viable tanker fleet is absolutely essential to every large-scale operation by our military and any further delays with the production start will have even more detrimental affect on the Air Force's vital mission,” said Bob Largent, chairman of the board for AFA.

“It will take many years of production to replace the entire aging KC-135 fleet. By taking this step now, the Air Force can move forward with this important program,” said Mike Dunn, president of AFA.

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The AFA is a 501(C)(3), nonprofit organization promoting public understanding of aerospace power and the pivotal role it plays in the security of the nation. AFA has more than 230 chapters nationwide and overseas.

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