MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. – McConnell Air Force Base’s aircraft are departing Monday, to relocate away from severe weather which is forecasted for the Wichita area, according to a media release from the base.
That forecast calls for high winds with the potential for large hail and the possibility of tornadoes. As such, the base’s KC-135R Stratotanker and KC-46A Pegasus aircraft are being relocated to other military bases outside the local area to protect the aircraft from potential damage, and preserve mission capability for McConnell Air Force Base to provide Air Refueling, Airlift and Aeromedical Evacuation worldwide.
The remaining aircraft, undergoing various phases of maintenance, along with a range of flightline vehicles and equipment, are being stored in hangars.
This is the third relocation of McConnell aircraft in four weeks, due to severe weather. While off-station, McConnell aircrews will continue training activities with other military units around the country.