The rollout of the Boeing KC-46A Pegasus tanker’s new remote vision system, RVS 2.0, is expected to slip into 2026, nearly two years behind schedule. Andrew Hunter, assistant secretary for acquisition, technology and logistics, cited schedule pressures and FAA airworthiness certification as factors delaying the release of RVS 2.0 to the fleet by October 2025. Boeing and Collins Aerospace are the main companies working on RVS 2.0.
RVS 2.0 will replace the KC-46’s original Remote Vision System, aiming to provide boom operators with better vision for refueling operations. The system was supposed to be released in March 2024 but faced a 19-month delay due to supply chain issues and airworthiness certification processes in 2022.
The KC-46 is still not cleared to refuel A-10 Warthog attack aircraft due to issues with its refueling boom stiffness. Boeing is working on a redesign that would allow safe refueling of the A-10. The Air Force has enough KC-135 Stratotankers to maintain A-10 operations.
The improved video clarity of RVS 2.0 is expected to enable new autonomous capabilities in the KC-46’s refueling operations. The Air Force plans to have 102 KC-46s by the end of the year and 118 by the end of 2025, with a total of 179 planned for purchase.
