The contract enhances KC-46A Onboard Performance Tool software to optimize cargo loading and manage takeoff and landing data for streamlined mission readiness.
Boeing has secured a $16.8 million contract from the U.S. Air Force for KC-46A software and data enhancements, aimed at enhancing the mission readiness and operational capabilities of the advanced multi-mission tanker aircraft.
The contract encompasses enhancements to the Onboard Performance Tool software for the KC-46A, focusing on accelerating mission readiness through optimized cargo loading and improved management of takeoff and landing data for flight planning. These upgrades enable aircrews to streamline weight and balance calculations, facilitating quicker aircraft loading and mission commencement.
Lynn Fox, KC-46 vice president, and program manager, said, “The U.S. Air Force and allies are performing crucial global missions with the growing KC-46A tanker fleet and finding ways to extract more capability from the platform, We’re collaborating to integrate enhancements like these and bring additional capabilities to the battlespace as rapidly as possible to meet the evolving needs of the mission.”
In 2023, the Air Force awarded Boeing a Block 1 upgrade contract aimed at enhancing the KC-46A’s advanced communications, data connectivity, and situational awareness. These improvements are designed to bolster aircraft survivability and provide operational advantages in contested environments.
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The KC-46A offers significantly increased capability over the KC-135 fleet it replaces, including the ability to carry three times more cargo pallets, up to twice as many passengers, and over 30% more aeromedical evacuation patients. To date, Boeing has delivered 84 KC-46As to the U.S. Air Force and four to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.
