Fairchild AFB is one of five bases being considered to station Active Duty KC-46As
Today, the Air Force told congressional leaders Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurt in New Jersey and Travis Air Force Base in California are the leading candidates for the next KC-46A locations; a final decision will come later this year
Murray: “I’m outraged at the manner in which this process was run and I do not consider this case closed”
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on the announcement that Fairchild Air Force Base is not a leading contender for the Active Duty KC-46A tanker fleet. Senator Murray has repeatedly stressed to Air Force officials that Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane is the optimal base to locate the tankers, citing Fairchild’s ability to handle the full complement of aircraft, as well as its strategic location in the Pacific Northwest, its proximity to other important bases, and its community support. Sen. Murray has also expressed concern that the Air Force process was opaque and that officials failed to be transparent about their decision-making.
“As I’ve said repeatedly, if the Air Force is truly committed to its plan to buy the full number of tankers, rebalance to Asia, and support operations around the world, Fairchild Air Force Base is the absolute best location for Main Operating Base Four,” Senator Murray said. “I’m outraged at the manner in which this process was run and I do not consider this case closed. I will pursue all avenues to ensure the Air Force explains every turn that led us to this decision.”
Last year, Senator Murray successfully fought to include a provision in an appropriations bill to ensure transparency and fairness in the next round of basing for the KC-46A fleet. In February of last year, Senator Murray questioned top Air Force officials about their plans to possibly reduce the number of tankers being located at Main Operation Base 4.
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