“I would like to commend the Air Force and the leadership at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst on this important step in the tanker basing process” said Governor Murphy.  “The Joint Base is strategically located in the Garden State and an important economic development engine for the region.  The arrival of the KC-46A will ensure the longevity of the base mission far into the future.”

Governor Murphy also highlighted the strength of New Jersey’s quality of life for airmen and their families. “We look forward to welcoming airmen and their families to our communities, schools, places of worship and workplaces.  We believe the quality of life of New Jersey is unmatched and look forward to these new neighbors making New Jersey their home.”

Both Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and Travis Air Force Base, California were selected to receive the new tankers.  However, the new sequencing plan means that the Joint Base will receive its new tankers in the 2021, 2022, and 2023 fiscal years, while Travis AFB will not start receiving tankers until fiscal year 2023.

The Joint Base is due to receive at least 24 new tankers, which will allow for the retirement of its KC-10 aircraft.  Tankers manned by Joint Base airmen play a vital role in supporting heavy transatlantic military flights to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Southwest Asia.