US Air Force Urged to Invest in New Tankers Amid China Threat

• •US Air Force's aerial refueling capabilities are deemed vulnerable against China.
• •The KC-46 Pegasus tankers are insufficient for large-scale operations in contested areas.
• •A new medium-sized tanker design is recommended to enhance range and survivability.

A report by the Hudson Institute highlights vulnerabilities in the US Air Force's aerial refueling capabilities, particularly against potential conflicts with China. The current KC-46 Pegasus tankers lack sufficient range, offload capacity, and survivability, risking US air operations. The report recommends developing a new medium-sized tanker with enhanced capabilities, alongside infrastructure improvements and mission system upgrades. The estimated cost for acquiring a fleet of 510 tankers, including 250 new designs, is approximately $397.6 billion. The Air Force's reliance on vulnerable forward bases further compounds the risk of defeat in a direct conflict with China. Military officials acknowledge the success of the KC-46 in recent operations but stress the need for a new approach. The report outlines five potential strategies for the tanker fleet, emphasizing the urgency of these recommendations.