SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The Secretary of the Air Force has selected Seymour Johnson AFB as the first Air Force Reserve-led KC-46A Pegasus main operating base. This decision follows the completion of the environmental assessment process.
The new KC-46A will be assigned to the 916th Air Refueling Wing, the Air Force’s premier integrated team of combat-ready Airmen. As the first integrated wing of the Air Force, the 916th ARW is an Air Force Reserve Command wing under the command of Col. Scovill Currin, an active duty Airman.
"In today’s Air Force, we do everything as a Total Force team," said Gen. Carlton Everhart II, Air Mobility Command commander. "Whether in times of war or providing humanitarian assistance to those in need, the Total Force tanker capability is critically important to ensuring our Nation’s success. The KC-46 presents a tremendous capability to our Total Force and joint warfighters, ensuring global reach for America."
AFRC will transition the 916th ARW from the KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft to the KC-46A by assigning 12 aircraft to the base. Aircraft delivery is expected, pending contractor delivery schedule, in fiscal year 2020.
"Our air refueling capability is a critical asset provided to our Combatant Commanders," said Lt. Gen. Maryanne Miller, commander of Air Force Reserve Command. "We are focused on building the future force by incorporating this modern era tanker fleet into our arsenal as we increase the synergy of our Total Force and support of joint and coalition partners during contingency and humanitarian operations worldwide. The KC-46A and the 916th Air Refueling Wing will capitalize on our efforts to modernize the fleet and provide continued global support."
"The 916th Air Refueling Wing has a long history of leading the way," said Col. Scovill Currin, 916th ARW commander. "From becoming the first Air Force Reserve flying unit in the state of N.C. to being home to the first Active Associate KC-135R squadron and integrated wing in U.S. Air Force history, our 916th Airmen, Team Seymour, and the city of Goldsboro have a proud heritage. Being selected as the first Air Force Reserve-led KC-46 main operating base is a tribute to that storied past and a testament to our bright future!"
The 916th ARW currently flies the KC-135R in support of the Air Force’s worldwide contingency operations involving aerial refueling, airlift of cargo and passengers, and aeromedical evacuations.