US Air Force Secretary questions affordability of next-generation aerial refueling system
simpleflying.com — November 9, 2024, 01:01 PM UTC
The U.S. Air Force Secretary has raised concerns that the planned Next-Generation Aerial Refueling System (NGAS) may be too costly to pursue. This follows similar issues faced by other aircraft programs in the past. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall highlighted budget constraints at the Airlift/Tanker Association Symposium, stating that current commitments make it difficult to afford new designs like NGAS and the sixth-generation fighter. The Air Force operates about 75% of the world's aerial tankers, which are crucial for military operations. However, aging aircraft and limited funding complicate the situation, as the Air Force must balance maintaining older jets with investing in new technology.