First KC-46 flight set for Sept. 25; F-16 will be first to refuel from it

The first functional version of the KC-46 (EMD-2) will make its maiden flight on Sept. 25, Brig. Gen. Duke Richardson, executive officer for Air Force tanker programs, said.

Photo: Boeing

The crucial refueling tests will start sometime early next year and the F-16 will be first to receive fuel. The following aircraft (in order) are scheduled next: C-17, F/A-18, A-10, KC-46A and AV-8B. It is not known when other aircraft types such as the F-15, F-22, F-35, B-2 and B-52 will be certified to work with the new tanker.

Source: First KC-46 flight set for Sept. 25; F-16 will be first to refuel from it