All Activity

KISS Principle. Axe the -330, keep the KC-46, drop any/all FAA certification.

I was. '19-22 at Creech.

Mine counted for them.

Mine did.

Yup, heard the same. Things change, different operational environment now so time to adjust. The report pushes hard (sts) for the Blended Wing Body (BWB) and Collaborative Tanker Aircraft (CTA), as the long term solution I think they are right, short term a new paradigm is needed though. If king for a day, if the KC-390 and A-330 MRTT+ could be acquired with an appropriate last tranche of KC-46s, I’d spin down the -135 fleet for this new iron while BWB design which would double as NGAL was spinning up. Those two designs somehow being acquired in compliance with the Made in America laws/policies. It’s a two fold problem, two fold approach. Big tankers to launch from relatively safe hardened bases with 1000+ NM set back from operational areas, AR to the next asset who will then AR the strikers assuming more risk going modestly into the A2AD bubble. The BWB will likely simplify this paradigm a bit (reduced signature, better range/offload, better organic defense) but we gotta crawl before we run.

KDLF 27-02AB T-6 FAIP x 2 T-38 x 5 EA-37B DM HC-130J Kirtland C-130J x 2 (1 IL ANG, 1 AD) KC-46 Travis C-5 x 2 (Travis, Dover) KC-135 x 2 (1 UT ANG, 1 AD Fairchild) C-17 x 2 (1 AD McChord, 1 NC ANG)

As I recall in the original KC-X proposal Boeing offered the 777F with a boom. It crushed in every possible category and the AF came back with, "its to big and won't fit in our existing hangers (707)". So then we had the debacle that was the 330 vs 767. Now AF wants the plane that won't fit in thier existing hangers.... sigh.

They would still go thru the full training program at airline X even with the type but it might make them more competitive to the hiring algorithm… The 787 tanker is a long shot but just for the interwebs. The A-330 MRTT NEO would be my recommendation (interim bigger wing tanker) but politics would likely be insurmountable. Still it brings up a good question, should the AF become more strategically oriented? That is focus on long range strike and effects, coming from a distance to mitigate the proliferation of short to mid range fires? I’m not saying the whole of the AF should be bombers and big fighters but part of the force design.

Can’t speak to fighters but on the MAF side, everyone is deployed. Hours are great if you are (minus living in a bunker hiding from TBMs), hours are slim pickings if you are home station. Last six months have been unlike anything anyone in this generation has seen.

Get in line pal...

All of them for at least 10 years...

Yeah, how many would actually stay after getting that type rating?

The run got longer (2.0 vs 1.5mi) and scoring charts changed, as well. I'd say getting a 90+ got a little tougher, but we will have to see how the numbers come in. It used to be a majority got above a 90. We will see in the next year or two if that changes. Seems like some units are running an actual fitness program rather than just saying "you got a 90+? Cool, do what you want."

Pretty certain the AIB will spot the same issues.

Weird, not seeing the potato stumping for anybody

How are flight hours these days. I heard fighters were slow.

Looking to join the Guard after you time in Active Duty? Have roots in Michigan that you want to get back to? Want to continue/start flying tankers out of a Delta Hub? Look no further! The 171st Air Refueling Squadron currently flies the mighty KC-135T and is based out the beautiful Selfridge ANG Base in Michigan. We are seeking highly qualified rated aviators to join our team. We provide the opportunity for continued service while providing you and your family stability and the ability to establish yourselves in the state of Michigan. As we start our conversion to the KC-46A in 2029, we are looking to bolster our team and hire experienced KC-46A pilots, instructors, and evaluators. Capt Ryley Pavlawk is the hiring manager and can be reached at 171arspilothiring@gmail.com For more info, see the link below: https://app.milrecruiter.com/squadrons/171st-air-refueling-squadron/job_postings/515

The MI Six Pack is hiring for UPT slots! The 171ARS out of Selfridge ANGB, MI currently flys the KC-135T and will be converting to the KC-46A in 2029. This board will most likley be our first KC-46 UPT hires depending on training timelines. Applications due by 06DEC26. Rushing by invite only. Expect interview the week of 04-08JAN27. More details here. https://app.milrecruiter.com/squadrons/171st-air-refueling-squadron/job_postings/691

Big tankers Breaking DefenseUSAF should buy newly designed air refuelers to meet Chin...Although there’s a “temptation” to keep buying KC-46s, a plan to procure 75 more of the Boeing-made tankers should be an “upper limit” followed by a new, longer range tanker, the Hudson Institute’s TiFinish and fix the 46, interim big tanker 787 tanker while developing the BWB. Needs a cargo door but a looker, especially as a Guard tail.

Vance T-38 class

Dibs

Sorry, I can't. You'll need to wait for the AIB.

Ditto, inquiring minds want to know if possible.

A wise Trump would avoid this choice, as she's too smart and would be President in a week, 8 days tops.

Can you give those of us that have been out for sometime now an unclass version?