KC-46 Tanker Malfunction Causes $9.98 Million Damage Amid Ongoing Problems
The Boeing KC-46 Pegasus tanker has been plagued by problems since its introduction in 2020. Despite being designed to replace hundreds of aging KC-135 Stratotankers, the new tanker still operates with unresolved issues affecting its cameras, refueling boom, fuel system, and overall readiness.
One major issue is the Remote Vision System (RVS), used by the boom operator to guide the refueling boom. The original RVS was plagued by distorted images from the camera and problems with changing lighting conditions, making it difficult for operators to accurately judge the boom's position.
The Air Force has developed a new system, RVS 2.0, which incorporates new cameras and displays. However, even this fix took years to implement, and as of February, the GAO reported that full-rate production of the KC-46 was not expected until after September 2026, roughly nine years behind schedule.
On July 8, 2025, a KC-46 was refueling an F-22 around 100 miles off Virginia when the boom became stuck in the fighter's receptacle. The boom also struck the tanker after the aircraft separated and eventually broke off into the Atlantic. The damage was valued at $9.98 million.