Boeing set to begin USAF's KC-46 refuelling boom production

Boeing is set to commence production of the first refuelling boom for the US Air Force's (USAF) KC-46 aerial refuelling tanker aircraft at its newly opened Boom Assembly Center in Seattle, US.
US Air Force Tanker Program executive officer and KC-46 programme director major general, John Thompson, said the facility opening represents a significant milestone for the KC-46 Tanker Program and the USAF.
"Boeing continues to make good progress toward delivering the KC-46 Tanker on schedule," Thompson added.
Boeing KC-46 vice president and programme manager, Maureen Dougherty, said: "The KC-46A will feature a modernised fly-by-wire boom based on the proven system on the US Air Force's KC-10 tanker, which will give it advanced refuelling capabilities, allowing it to refuel any fixed-wing receiver aircraft anytime and on any mission."
Following completion, the first boom will undergo evaluations at a System Integration Lab (SIL) during the third quarter of 2013.

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