TRANSCOM head optimistic about tanker capacity mitigation plan

The head of U.S. Transportation Command said today he's optimistic about the progress being made with the Air Force to develop a strategy to mitigate the tanker capacity gap until the KC-46 is combat-ready.

Gen. Stephen Lyons declined to comment on ongoing negotiations between the Air Force and prime contractor Boeing on open KC-46 deficiencies, despite the service's announcement Monday that it had elevated a fourth Category 1 deficiency involving excessive fuel leaks.

Lyons said the prospect of developing a sound strategy for maintaining aerial refueling capacity until the new tanker is ready for its full operational slate has been "much more optimistic here of late."

"We're working with the Air Force on that, and I think we have a good agreement on a strategy at this particular point," he said.

The Air Force continues to negotiate with Boeing on a plan to address one of the Category 1 deficiencies -- the tanker's remote visual system. The service had expected to reach an agreement by the end of March, but service spokeswoman Capt. Cara Bousie confirmed today the discussions are ongoing, though an agreement is near.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein told lawmakers earlier this month the KC-46 is not expected to be ready for combat until the 2023 or 2024 timeframe.