Boeing began assembly of the first KC46A tanker destined for Japan, with the introduction of a 25-meter spar into the 767's production chain.
Boeing was awarded the overseas military sales contract for the KC-46A and related logistics services in December 2017. The US Air Force exercised an option for the second Japanese aircraft in December 2018.
Boeing is making the aircraft, both for the US Air Force and for Japan, in its Everett production line. After initial assembly, the tanker's military systems are installed in the Edit Center of the site. The jets are then tested in flight before delivery.
Boeing began developing the KC-46A for the US Air Force in 2011 and delivered the first in January 2019. Japan is the program's first international customer. Deliveries to JASDF will begin in 2021.
The KC-46A is a derivative of the commercial 767-2C, a cell in service as an airliner and freighter. Over 1.150 767 have been delivered worldwide.
Photo: Boeing
