Publisher's Synopsis
The KC-46A Pegasus is designed to refuel any fixed-wing U.S. Air Force (USAF) aircraft capable of aerial refueling, as well as many fixed-wing aircraft of allies and partners. It provides fuel through three system types: a centerline boom modified from the KC-10; a centerline hose and drogue system; and two Wing Air Refueling Pods, each with hose and drogue systems. The KC-46A can be configured in a variety of refueling, passenger, and cargo combinations through continuous tracks running through the aircraft. The authors of this report examine improvement in acquisition and sustainment of military commercial derived aircraft using a case study of the KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling tanker. This report begins with a brief review of the troubled early history of the KC-46A program, focusing on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification, data rights, and organic-oriented life cycle sustainment, and provides lessons learned to impr
