Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom MacArthur today announced that New Jersey’s Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst has been named as a finalist for the placement of the next generation KC-46 aircraft. The Air Force is in the process of introducing the KC-46 into the refueling fleet, currently led by the KC-10 that received protections from Congressman MacArthur in the FY16 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

MacArthur has also been working with key people in New Jersey and at the Department of Defense to make sure JBMDL is considered as the ideal location for the placement of the new tanker.

“I can’t think of a better installation to host the new KC-46 aerial refueling tanker than Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst,” said Congressman Tom MacArthur.

“The Joint Base is one of our nation’s premier air mobility installations, and a great option for housing the KC-46. I was proud my amendments protecting the current refueling tanker were included in our nation’s defense bill, as well as the government funding bill passed in December. These protections were critical to the survival of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and the 42,000 New Jersey residents employed there, as well as the tens of thousands of additional jobs that rely on the base. I look forward to using my position on the House Armed Services Committee to continue fighting for basing the KC-46 right here in South Jersey as we approach the upcoming decision deadline.”