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

Boeing, Antonov to Collaborate on Defense Projects

– MOU represents Boeing’s commitment to work with Ukrainian industry

– Includes exploring opportunities for collaborating on in-country support of Unmanned Aerial Systems

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed today by Boeing and Antonov Company to investigate potential collaboration on defense-related projects.

“We’re happy to keep collaborating with the Antonov Company to help Ukraine’s economic development and expansion,” stated Ted Colbert, CEO and president of Boeing Defence, Space, & Security.

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“This agreement demonstrates our ongoing efforts to find more opportunities to work with Ukrainian industry, which was underscored by our signing of the Ukrainian Defence Industry Compact earlier this year.”

The areas of potential collaboration identified in the agreement consist of training, logistical support and overhaul services for tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems utilized by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which includes the ScanEagle. In addition, the companies will also explore opportunities for Antonov to provide engineering support to Boeing.

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“A strong, innovative, and efficient defense industry is key to sustainable economic development and national security, and we are extremely excited to collaborate with Boeing,” said Ievhen Gavrylov, CEO of Antonov Company.

This agreement brings a whole new level of opportunity to implement the latest and most effective solutions – in addition to the possibility of future projects with Boeing in the aerospace and defense industry.”