RIVERSIDE – (INT) – March Air Reserve Base (MARB) is among six locations under consideration as a main operating base for twelve KC-46A Pegasus aircraft.

The tankers would replace the aging KC-135 Stratotankers, the Air Force version of the Boeing 707.

“Thanks to significant investments in on-site infrastructure throughout March Air Reserve Base, the installation is an optimal location for basing the KC-46 and its important mission,” said Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Corona).

In addition to receiving new aircraft, the new operating base would experience a manpower increase from the current level of 511 personnel up to a proposed level of 701 personnel.

Calvert noted “There is widespread support among the Southern California House Delegation for selecting March as a home for the KC-46 aircraft because of its strategic location and the fact it is the only Reserve candidate location with a current Active Association.”

A decision on bringing the new tankers to MARB is expected this fall.

Story Date: October 1, 2021