Since 1965, eight C-130s and 43 C-130 Marine aircrew members have been lost.
The award brings the number of KC-46s under contract with the U.S. Air Force to 128.
The Air Force believes it will take at least three years for Boeing to start installing new hardware that resolves the “stiff boom” problem.
If a C-130 can act as bomber, a bomber can serve as a cargo plane, the argument goes.
The Air Force believes it will cost at least $2.5 million to repair the KC-46.
The idea has raised eyebrows among military watchers who question its motives and safety.
Boeing said supply chain problems have resulted in longer lead times for the computing equipment and other technology needed to build RVS 2.0.
It's uncertain how long it will take Air Mobility Command to replace all the defective propeller assemblies that have grounded most C-130H planes.
“It does have strategic implications, but I think that’s all to the positive,” Air Force Special Operations Command boss Lt. Gen. Jim Slife said.
The Air Force’s new KC-46A Pegasus tanker recently notched its first refueling mission as part of real-world operations.
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