The Boeing KC-46A aircraft upgrade for the U.S. Airforce includes line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications technologies with anti-jamming and encryption features.
Boeing has been awarded a $184 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to upgrade the KC-46A’s advanced communications capabilities through a Block 1 upgrade. The upgrade includes line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications technologies with anti-jamming and encryption features. The enhanced connectivity and data integration provided by the KC-46A will improve battlespace situational awareness for joint and allied forces. The upgrade will further expand the tanker’s battlespace network capabilities, including Advanced Battle Management System integration.
Boeing has delivered 69 KC-46A tankers to the U.S. Air Force and two to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The aircraft has been approved by the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command for global combat operations since 2022. The KC-46A has already demonstrated its ability to provide more secure communications and data integration than any tanker, giving the crew and fleet situational awareness for real-time decision-making. Its ability to deliver data as well as fuel to the joint force has transformed the role of the tanker for the 21st century.
James Burgess, Vice President and KC-46 program manager, Boeing said, “This upgrade demonstrates long-term investment from Boeing and the Air Force. The KC-46A is built to integrate cutting-edge capabilities directly into the DNA of the aircraft as the needs of the mission evolve.”
Boeing builds KC-46A aircraft on the 767 production line in Everett, Wash., supported by a supplier network of about 37,000 American workers employed by more than 650 businesses throughout more than 40 U.S. states. The company is also on contract to deliver four KC-46A tankers to the Israel Air Force.
Boeing is a leading global aerospace company that develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in over 150 countries. The company is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on its core values of safety, quality and integrity.
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As the KC-46A continues to evolve and expand its capabilities, it is expected to play a critical role in joint and allied operations around the world. The company’s investment in long-term capabilities is a testament to its commitment to supporting the U.S. Air Force and its allies in achieving their missions.
