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Senate hearing highlights tanker availability shortfalls and base construction bottlenecks
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Summary
Witnesses told senators KC‑46 availability is just over 50% and the KC‑135 fleet is aging; senators also pressed for timely base construction at Selfridge and Sioux City and quicker rebasing for Alaska tankers.
Senators and Air Force leaders debated aerial-refueling capability, tanker availability and base construction needs at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing.
When asked about immediate tanker capacity, General Alvin said KC‑46 availability was “just at 51%,” including jets undergoing depot maintenance. He and other witnesses emphasized that while the KC‑46 provides modern capability, sustainment and deficiency fixes are still being worked with industry to ensure combat-capable jets roll off production lines.
Lawmakers discussed longer‑term recapitalization objectives and basing plans. Senator Peters pressed the Air Force to support recapitalization of Selfridge Air National Guard Base after the administration announced basing of KC‑46 tankers and F‑15EX fighters there. General Alvin said the service pairs platform arrivals with construction timing and noted the goal is to ensure platforms do not arrive without necessary infrastructure.
Senator Ernst raised a 20‑year delay in runway and MILCON at Sioux City (Colonel Bud Day Airfield). General Alvin said Sioux City’s MILCON design has progressed: “We put the money in to start towards 35%. ... It is now 65% design,” which allows the project to compete for MILCON funding or be included on an unfunded priorities list.
On Alaska posture, the Air Force described ongoing overseas force‑structure and housing work to support basing of additional tankers. Officials said sourcing decisions involve joint staff and OSD processes and that family housing analyses have been completed for some locations.
Senators requested written updates on KC‑46 availability improvements, depot scheduling, and the MILCON prioritization status for bases raising infrastructure concerns. No formal votes were taken; senators signaled continued oversight of tanker availability and base readiness.
