The US Air Force (USAF) is looking at commercially derived aircraft options for its Bridge Tanker programme, to supplement the ongoing delivery of Boeing KC-46A tankers and maintain fleet numbers as the KC-135 Stratotanker (pictured) leaves service.In a June 17 statement, the USAF Life Cycle Management Center noted that the Sources Sought Announcement will determine the number of interested companies capable of providing solutions for the planned, non-developmental tanker recapitalisation programmeThe USAF is seeking companies that have the capability to deliver commercial derivative tanker aircraft to supplement its fleet at the end of KC-46A Pegasus production. The new aircraft will bridge the gap to the next Advanced Air Refuelling Tanker recapitalisation phase, previously referred to as 'KC-Z'. The existing KC-46A firm-fixed price contract is limited to 13 production lots, with the last planned procurement to take place in 2027 for delivery in 2029.
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