McConnell Air Force Base, located southeast of Wichita, Kansas, is taking precautionary measures as severe weather looms over the Plains region. This marks the third instance in the past four weeks that the base has had to move aircraft due to impending weather conditions.
The Public Affairs Officer at the base, John Van Winkle, confirmed the relocation of aircraft in response to the threatening weather. The 22nd Air Refueling Wing, responsible for the base's KC-135R Stratotanker and KC-46A Pegasus aircraft, stated that the decision to move the aircraft to other military bases outside the local area aims to safeguard them from potential damage.
The KC-135R Stratotanker serves as a vital component of the US Air Force's core aerial refueling capability. Alongside the KC-46A Pegasus, these aircraft play a crucial role in providing aerial refueling services to various wings of the armed services and other entities.
As part of the relocation efforts, aircraft currently undergoing maintenance procedures, as well as a variety of flightline vehicles and equipment, are being securely stored in hangars on the base premises. This strategic move is intended to ensure the safety and integrity of the aircraft and associated assets during the period of severe weather.
