The Department of the Air Force has selected McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base in Knoxville, Tenn., as the preferred location to host the KC-46A Pegasus Main Operating Base (MOB) 7.

A final basing decision for the location of the ANG’s KC-46A MOB 7 is expected in 2027. 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. The first of eight aircraft are scheduled to arrive in 2031.

Eight KC-46As will replace all KC-135 Stratotankers at the final decision location and bring enhanced capabilities, such as boom and drogue defueling on the same sortie, worldwide navigation and communication, cargo capacity on the entire main deck floor, receiver air refueling, improved force protection, and multi-point air refueling capability.