The KC-46A Pegasus is a multi-role tanker in the US Air Force (USAF) inventory, also capable of transport missions.

The USAF's original plan was to acquire 179 tankers by 2027, but this plan has since been expanded.

Built on a wide-body, twin-engine design, the tanker is a low-wing monoplane with a conventional tail, tricycle landing gear and hydraulic flight controls.

Its cockpit has three large digital displays, and it uses a fly-by-wire refueling boom.

The Pegasus also features a safety system that uses two sensors to detect when the nose pitch is too high and automatically adjusts the stabilizer.

The system disengages when the pilot applies stick input, improving safety and handling under demanding conditions.

Crew and mission flexibility

The Pegasus typically flies with a crew of three: two pilots and a refueling boom operator.

The crew compartment includes seating, bunks, a galley and a lavatory, supporting up to 15 crew members on long missions.

It can carry 58 passengers in palletized seating at the rear, and in contingency operations as many as 114.

In a full cargo role, it can lift nearly 29,500 kg on 18 pallets.

For aeromedical evacuation, it can transport 54 patients, including 24 on litters, with two nurses and three medical technicians.

Range and survivability

The Pegasus carries 96,000 kg of fuel, extending the range of fighters and support aircraft worldwide.

Its survivability is strengthened by infrared countermeasures, limited electronic warfare systems, hardened components and armored cockpit protection.

Night-vision capability also allows it to operate effectively in low-light missions.

With a top speed of 650 mph (0.86 Mach), the tanker keeps pace with modern fighters while its boom system ensures reliable in-flight refueling.

Connectivity advantage

The Pegasus is equipped with Link 16, a tactical data link that enhances coordination in contested airspace.

By sharing real-time position and mission data, tankers and receivers can adjust refueling points dynamically.

This reduces wait time, saves fuel and keeps fighters on station longer.

The KC-46A is a true force multiplier, a versatile tanker that extends the reach of combat aircraft, carries troops and cargo and provides aeromedical evacuation when needed.