190th ARW Hosts Site Survey Team to Compete for KC-46A Pegasus Basing Published March 31, 2025 By Capt. Briell Zweygardt 190th Air Refueling Wing FORBES FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Kan. -- The 190th Air Refueling Wing will welcome a site survey team consisting of members from the National Guard Bureau and active-duty Air Force at the beginning of April, 2025. The team’s visit is a crucial step in determining the final selection for the next KC-46A Pegasus basing, with the 190th ARW among the seven finalists under consideration. A final decision is expected in the fall of 2025. During the site survey, the 190th ARW will highlight key advantages that make it an ideal choice for KC-46A operations. The wing’s central location, cost-effective operations, growth potential, strong partnerships, existing infrastructure, and proven capability will be at the forefront of discussions. These factors contribute to the 190th ARW’s ability to support future aerial refueling and combat support missions most effectively. "The KC-46A brings more capability than just fuel to aerial warfare. This is critical for our Airmen and aircrew who would be fighting in potential future conflicts," said Col. Kent Crane, Commander, 190th ARW. The site survey provides an opportunity to showcase how the 190th ARW is uniquely positioned to enhance Air Force capabilities in strategic refueling missions. "It's always exciting getting to showcase the 190th, especially the members of the 190th because they're so adaptable, they're innovative, and they excel at everything they do," said Col. Marjorie Durkes, Deputy Commander, 190th ARW. "It's so exciting to showcase not only the 190th but the Topeka community and how we've all come together around this." The potential selection of the 190th ARW for KC-46A basing would have a significant impact on both the wing and the local community. The increased mission scope would strengthen existing relationships, create new opportunities for collaboration, and enhance the economic and strategic impact of the 190th ARW within the region. The Department of the Air Force previously announced the seven finalist locations in September 2024 as part of its effort to expand KC-46A operational capability. Additional details can be found in related press releases from the National Guard Association of the United States and the Air Force’s official website: - [Air Force: DAF Announces Seven Candidate Locations for KC-46A Pegasus MOB 7](https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3925231/daf-announces-seven-candidate-locations-for-kc-46a-pegasus-mob-7/) - [NGAUS: 7 Air Guard Units Now Finalists for KC-46A Tanker](https://www.ngaus.org/newsroom/7-air-guard-units-now-finalists-kc-46a-tanker) The 190th ARW remains committed to its mission and looks forward to demonstrating its excellence and readiness to host the KC-46A Pegasus. The mission of the 190th ARW is to provide premier global reach and combat-ready Airmen, ensuring operational success anytime, anywhere. For more information, contact: 190th ARW Public Affairs Email: 190.ARW.Public.Affairs.Org@us.af.mil Phone: 785-861-4363 or 785-217-6434