Issues Concerning Air Force KC-10A Advanced Tanker/Cargo Aircraft

The Air Force plans to buy 20 McDonnell-Douglas DC-10 convertible freighter aircraft, designated the KC-10A, at an estimated program cost of $1.055 billion, with options to buy up to 60 aircraft. The primary mission of the KC-10A is to provide improved mobility by: (1) permitting strategic aircraft to fly from U.S. bases to most parts of the world with large payloads, lessening the need to refuel en route; (2) supporting long-range deployment of tactical fighters by simultaneously providing in- flight refueling and cargo airlift; and (3) augmenting airlift forces by carrying palletized cargo and bulk fuel between major aerial ports. The Air Force has also approved programs modifying the current KC-135 tanker to extend its service life and improve its performance at a cost that could be as high as $12 million per aircraft. The most expensive modification being considered is replacing the engine. However, the Air Force has not evaluated the relative cost effectiveness of various alternatives to fulfill total aerial refueling requirements, which GAO feels needs comprehensive study.