Home base for the Pegasus and remembering the first flight of the Stallion
The Air Force narrows down base selection for the Pegasus and looking back on the origins of the CH-53
“God, Grant me the eyes of an Eagle, The judgement of an Owl, The reflexes of a Cat, The radar of a Cave Bat, The heart of a Bull, and The balls of an Army helicopter pilot.”
-anonymous
Mission Briefing
This month, the U.S. Air Force announced seven potential locations for the primary hub of its newest aerial refueling tanker, the KC-46A Pegasus. This decision marks a significant step in the evolution of the Air Force’s aerial refueling capabilities, with plans to finalize a home base by 2027. The selected base will play a pivotal role in the future of U.S. air mobility and extend the global reach of American forces.
The Air Force outlined that, “One base will be selected to host the new mission pending a final basing decision, and the outcome of a planned environmental impact analysis anticipated no later than 2027.” Following this decision, the first of eight KC-46A Pegasus aircraft are expected to arrive in 2031, ushering in a new era of refueling technology and strategy.
Developed by Boeing, the KC-46A Pegasus is a next-generation aerial refueling tanker designed to replace the aging fleet of KC-135 Stratotankers, which have been in service since the 1950s. The Pegasus, based on the Boeing 767 airframe, is not only built for refueling operations but also designed to carry cargo, passengers, and medical evacuation personnel, making it a versatile asset for the Air Force.
What sets the KC-46A apart from its predecessors is its advanced refueling system. It utilizes a modernized boom system capable of transferring fuel to a wide range of military aircraft, including the F-35 Lightning II, F-22 Raptor, and C-17 Globemaster III. The tanker also features a state-of-the-art remote vision system, allowing operators to refuel aircraft with greater precision and safety, even in low-visibility conditions.
In addition to its refueling capabilities, the KC-46A can transport up to 65,000 pounds of cargo, carry up to 114 passengers, or be configured for medical evacuation with room for up to 58 patients. This adaptability ensures that the Pegasus can support a wide variety of missions, from combat operations to humanitarian relief efforts.
As the Air Force considers its final decision on the KC-46A’s home base, the strategic location of this new hub will be crucial. The selected base will serve as the central point for aerial refueling missions around the world, extending the reach of U.S. air power and its allies. It will also play a critical role in enabling the Air Force to project strength and provide logistical support in areas where traditional fuel stops may not be accessible.
The timeline for establishing the KC-46A’s base reflects the importance of careful planning. With an environmental impact analysis slated for completion by 2027, the Air Force is committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the base, while also considering its operational needs. Once established, the base will receive its first KC-46A aircraft in 2031, signaling the start of a new chapter in the Air Force’s refueling mission.
The KC-46A Pegasus represents more than just a replacement for older tankers; it is a symbol of the future of aerial refueling. With its advanced technology and multi-mission capabilities, the Pegasus will not only provide critical support to combat and cargo aircraft but also enhance the U.S. military’s ability to respond rapidly to global events.
As the Air Force finalizes its decision on the KC-46A’s home base, this week in aviation history reminds us of the continual advancements in air mobility that shape the future of military operations. The arrival of the Pegasus marks a new era of efficiency, flexibility, and readiness in the skies, ensuring that the U.S. Air Force remains at the forefront of global air power.
This week in aviation history
14 October 1964: the aviation world witnessed the maiden flight of the Sikorsky YCH-53A Sea Stallion prototype, Bu. No. 151613, at the Sikorsky plant in Stratford, Connecticut. This marked a significant moment in the development of heavy-lift helicopters for the U.S. military, laying the groundwork for what would become one of the most powerful and versatile transport helicopters ever built.
The YCH-53A, also known as Sikorsky Model S-65, was derived from several proven designs. Its fuselage design closely resembled that of the smaller CH-3C (S-61R), while it borrowed key dynamic components from the CH-37 Mojave (S-56) and CH-54A Tarhe (S-64). These elements combined to create a new, twin-engine heavy-lift helicopter capable of handling large cargo loads and transporting troops into hostile environments.
The CH-53A Sea Stallion was an imposing machine, designed for both strength and agility. With a length of 88 feet, 2.4 inches (26.883 meters) from nose to rotor tip, and a fuselage measuring 67 feet, 2.4 inches (20.483 meters), it was built for long-range missions. The helicopter's six-blade, fully articulated main rotor had a span of 72 feet, 2.7 inches (22.014 meters), rotating counterclockwise, while the four-blade semi-articulated tail rotor, mounted in a pusher configuration, provided additional stability and control.
Powering this beast were two General Electric T64-GE-6 turboshaft engines, each producing 2,850 shaft horsepower. These engines gave the CH-53A a maximum speed of 130 knots (241 kilometers per hour) and a service ceiling of 16,750 feet (5,105 meters). Its range, when carrying maximum payload, extended to 540 miles (870 kilometers), making it an invaluable asset for long-distance missions.
The success of the CH-53A led to further developments. After the production of 139 CH-53A models, Sikorsky introduced the three-engine CH-53E Super Stallion, which significantly increased the helicopter’s lifting capacity and power. Today, the CH-53 legacy continues with the latest version, the CH-53K King Stallion, boasting modernized avionics, more powerful engines, and enhanced lift capabilities, making it the U.S. Marine Corps' premier heavy-lift helicopter.
The Sea Stallion’s history is a testament to the ingenuity of helicopter design and its vital role in modern military operations. Whether transporting cargo, rescuing personnel, or providing critical support in combat zones, the CH-53 series has earned its place as a workhorse of the skies.
This week marks the 60th anniversary of the YCH-53A's first flight, a milestone in aviation history that continues to have an enduring impact on military air transport today.
In Case You Missed It
The Raptor will be undergoing some upgrades to extend its service life:
Photo Outlet
The F-16 Viper Demonstration team may have a new paint scheme, but I still like this one from 2022 - what do you think?
Post Flight Debrief
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-Tog