The RAND Corp. released an executive summary March 7 detailing its findings from an analysis of alternatives study to replace the Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.

The report states, "A fleet of medium to large (300,000 to 1,000,000 pounds maximum gross takeoff weight) commercial derivatives is the most cost-effective alternative for KC-135 recapitalization."

The analysis indicates there are a number of competitive aircraft currently available in this size class. RAND also concluded that the present value of all lifecycle costs of the combination of the KC-135 fleet and its replacement is relatively insensitive to when recapitalization begins.

Therefore, the timing of replacing the KC-135 fleet should be based instead on the Air Force's degree of confidence in the viability of the current fleet, annual budget constraints, and the operational risk associated with delaying improvements in the capability of the current fleet, the report said.

“We are currently working with the Office of the Secretary of Defense staff to finalize our recapitalization strategy and timing, while taking into consideration the studies completed to date. We remain dedicated to ensuring that our warfighters, both present and future, continue to have this critical capability,” said Lt . Gen. Donald J. Hoffman, military deputy from the office of the assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition.

Before the Air Force can begin recapitalizing the KC-135 fleet, the Department of Defense must find that the analysis of alternatives is objective and sufficient, and lift the pause placed on the effort.

According to Air Force officials, this analysis is one of the first steps in a transparent, competitive and cost-effective plan to preserve the nation's outstanding tanker capability.