Maximizing the Investment
In modernizing its tanker fleet, the U.S. Air Force will make a procurement decision that will shape its primary aerial refueling fleet for decades to come.
Its choice should be based on an open and competitive evaluation of all possible alternatives that will create the best long-term investment of tanker performance and flexibility, the use of modern technology and the lowest life-cycle costs.
Historically, the armed services have found that open and robust competition for key defense programs drive innovation, elevate system capability and performance, and reduce cost to the U.S. taxpayer. Northrop Grumman and its KC-45 industry team have made significant investments and created a compelling offering to replace the U.S. Air Force's aging tanker fleet.
The KC-45 carries a larger transferable fuel load without the need for additional fuel tanks, it stays on station, and simultaneously supports multi-point refueling with a mix of flying boom and hose & drogue refueling systems. Additionally, the KC-45’s widebody fuselage and excellent performance provide a Total Air Mobility solution with its capacity to carry approximately 226 passengers, approximately 120 litters or as many as 32 NATO-standard 463L pallets.
As a result, the KC-45 Tanker provides superior operational capability in all critical areas of mission performance.
A tanker derived from an existing large commercial airliner is the most cost-effective way to meet all U.S. Air Force mission requirements, and the KC-45 is the best commercial aircraft derivative for the service's new-generation tanker.
The A330 airliner, on which the KC-45 is based, is known worldwide for its high operating efficiency and excellent dispatch reliability - attributes that will be passed directly to the KC-45. The A330 uses an advanced wing with optimized aerodynamics, and its airframe incorporates composite aerostructures that provide highest structural integrity at the lowest possible weight.
As a state-of-the-art aircraft, the KC-45 feature the latest innovations in fly-by-wire technology - including cockpit commonality with a popular fly-by-wire family of aircraft that also includes the A318, A319, A320, A321 and A340. The growing number of U.S. Air Force Reserve pilots who are rated on these fly-by-wire aircraft provide the Air Force with a pool of pilots who are ready for a rapid transition to the KC-45's flight deck.
The A330 is an aircraft early in its operational prime, with production and manufacturer support assured for decades to come. For the U.S. Air Force, this guarantees the KC-45 will benefit from continued innovation, upgrades and improvements, an abundant supply of competitively-priced spares and low life-cycle cost - all significant returns on the taxpayer's investment.
