Türkiye to decide between KC-46A and MRTT for KC-135R tanker replacement

The Turkish Air Force has seven KC-135s (pictured) that it is looking to replace with either the KC-46A or the MRTT. (Janes/Patrick Allen)

Türkiye is to decide between the Boeing KC-46A Pegasus and the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) for its Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker tanker replacement, Janes was told on 26 May.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a source with knowledge of the matter but without authorisation for official comment said that negotiations had now been opened between the Turkish government and the two companies, ahead of a downselect and procurement contract for one.

“There are advantages to both types,” the source said. “For the KC-46A, the Turkish Air Force [TuAF] is already familiar with the US Air Force's maintenance ethos through the KC-135R. For the MRTT, there are more options for aero medical evacuation, etc.”

The source did not say when a type selection decision is expected, anticipated aircraft numbers, or when deliveries might commence.

The TuAF has seven KC-135Rs, which it has flown since 1995. As noted by Janes World Air Forces the fleet is operated by the 10th Main Jet Base Command at Incirlik, alongside a detachment of US Air Force KC-135s. The fleet supports Türkiye's ability to conduct long-range conventional airstrikes and air patrols, while serving in a secondary role as cargo/passenger transport aircraft.

For more information on the KC-46A and MRTT, please see Farnborough 2024: Boeing bullish on Italian tanker bid and Farnborough 2024: Airbus reveals enhanced MRTT+ tanker transport aircraft .