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KC-767

The KC-767 is intended to replace the aging fleet of KC-135E tankers, which have been in service for more than 40 years. The KC-767 tanker provides optimum fuel offload and range to meet the air-fueling and transport needs for military service, while delivering maximum operational flexibility and performance.

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History

In the 1980s and in 1990/91 Boeing conducted studies directed towards the identification of an appropriate successor to the KC-135 Stratotanker, a derivative of the Boeing 707 jetliner. In 1991, the 707 production line was finally closed and studies confirmed that the long range twin engine 767 was a strong candidate to replace the KC-135. In May 2003, the US Air Force announced that it would lease 100 tankers to replace the oldest of its KC-135 tankers, subject to congressional approval. The lease would be for six years starting in 2006. An option to buy at the end of the lease is included in the deal.

Description

The capabilities of the KC-767 greatly exceed those of its predecessor. The new aircraft is capable of offloading 40,000 pounds more fuel at a 1,200 NM radius. It provides 20 percent more fuel offload than the KC-135E tankers. The KC-767 can itself be refueled in flight. It also has the capability to refuel Air Force, Navy, Marine and allied aircraft on every mission. It provides greater cargo and passenger capability than the KC-135E -- 19 versus 6 pallets, 200 versus 57 passengers.

Aircraft performance is significantly greater than the older tankers as well. The new jets will be able to take off from an 8,000-foot runway, allowing fully loaded operations from four times as many runways around the world. The KC-767 also has a modern, state-of-the-art digital cockpit.