Turkey has narrowed its options for a new aerial refueling platform, weighing Boeing’s KC-46A Pegasus against Airbus’ A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) as it moves to modernize its tanker fleet.
A Turkish official familiar with the matter told Breaking Defense that negotiations with both manufacturers are underway to determine which aircraft best fits the country’s needs to replace its KC-135 tankers.
The Turkish Air Force currently operates seven KC-135R Stratotankers, procured in the mid-1990s.
According to Turkish defense expert Barin Kayaoglu, both choices hold strategic value for Ankara from a geopolitical perspective.
“Buying American (Boeing’s KC-46) helps Ankara-Washington/Erdogan-Trump ties, [while] buying European (Airbus A330 MRTT) keeps Turkey in Europe’s good graces,” he explained.
No details on quantity or delivery timeline have been disclosed.
Tale of the Tape
The KC-46A Pegasus is a military tanker aircraft based on the Boeing 767 airliner. It can refuel F-15, F-16, F-35, and other fighter jets.
Its rival, the Airbus A330 MRTT, is derived from the civilian A330 wide-body jet and features twin engines for extended range and fuel efficiency.
The KC-46A can offload around 212,000 pounds (96,000 kilograms) of fuel, while the A330 offers a higher capacity at 245,000 pounds (111,000 kilograms).
In terms of personnel transport, the Pegasus seats up to 65 troops, whereas the MRTT can carry as many as 300 passengers.
The KC-46A also features advanced refueling and survivability systems and has the ability to receive fuel mid-air, enhancing its operational range.
Both aircraft support multi-mission roles, combining aerial refueling with cargo and troop transport capabilities.
