Aviation

Japan Orders Two More Boeing KC-46A Tankers

Japan Air Self-Defense Force now slated for six multi-mission KC-46A tanker

*Japan Air Self-Defense Force now slated for six multi-mission KC-46A tankers with two already delivered.
* Growing global fleet of Pegasus aerial refuelers increasing interoperability for mission success.

The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has ordered two more KC-46A Pegasus tankers from Boeing, bringing the total number of KC-46A Pegasus tankers ordered by Japan to six. The first KC-46A tanker from Boeing arrived in Japan in October 2021, and the second one arrived in February 2022.

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Designed to refuel all allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures, the proven Pegasus has flown more than 10,000 sorties and is delivering millions of pounds of fuel every month to allied forces around the globe. In addition to refueling, the KC-46A delivers multi-mission capabilities necessary for the 21st century fleet, including data connectivity and personnel, cargo and aeromedical transportation.

Boeing has delivered 67 KC-46A tankers, including 65 to the U.S. Air Force and two to Japan. Built on the proven 767 airframe that has more than 1,200 delivered—and with more KC-46A aircraft operational globally than any tanker except the Boeing-built KC-135—the Pegasus also provides crucial mission reliability for global customers.

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The contract was awarded by the U.S. Air Force through the Foreign Military Sales process. Boeing builds KC-46A aircraft for the U.S. Air Force, the JASDF and other allied customers on its 767 production line in Everett, Washington. In addition, Boeing’s Japanese partners produce 16 percent of the KC-46A airframe structure. The JASDF also operates four earlier generation Boeing-built KC-767 aircraft.

Aviation

Another Nation Set to Acquire Embraer C-390 Millennium Aircraft

The Slovak Ministry of Defense has taken a significant step toward enhancing its military transport capabilities by signing a Letter of Intent with the Brazilian Ministry of Defense.

This agreement opens doors for deeper industrial cooperation between Slovakia and Brazil, further strengthening their defense ties. During a visit to Brazil, the Slovak Minister of Defense expressed clear support for the embraer C-390 Millennium as the ideal solution for Slovakia’s future military transport needs.

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A key factor in this decision is the advantage of regional synergies with neighboring countries that already operate or have ordered the C-390. These include opportunities for collaboration in training, logistics, and fleet development, promising long-term operational and economic benefits.

Starting in January 2025, Slovakia will initiate formal steps toward acquiring three C-390 aircraft, marking a critical investment in its defense modernization efforts.

The embraer c-390 millennium, a multi-mission airlift platform, is rapidly gaining popularity among European Union and NATO members. With its versatile capabilities, the C-390 is contributing to the modernization of allied armed forces while enhancing interoperability across Europe.

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Countries such as Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, and the Czech Republic have already included the C-390 in their fleets, while Sweden has recently announced its selection. Beyond Europe, Brazil and South Korea also operate this aircraft, emphasizing its global appeal.

Since its debut with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019 and subsequent introduction to the Portuguese Air Force in 2023, the embraer c390 fleet has demonstrated outstanding performance.

With over 15,500 flight hours logged, the aircraft boasts a mission capability rate of 93% and a mission completion rate exceeding 99%, underscoring its reliability and efficiency in the category.

As Slovakia progresses toward finalizing its acquisition, the Embraer C-390 Millennium is poised to become a cornerstone of its military transport operations, joining a growing roster of nations that recognize its exceptional performance and value.