U.S. Transportation Command Pushes for KC-135, C-17, and Ready Reserve Force Replacements

U.S. Transportation Command (Transcom) is pushing for continuous upgrades to the military’s air refueling, airlift, and sealift capabilities as aging aircraft and vessels require urgent replacement.

Testifying before a joint hearing of the House Armed Services Committee, Air Force Gen. Randall Reed emphasized the need for sustained investment in new tanker and airlift platforms. He noted that even after the U.S. Air Force accepts its final KC-46 Pegasus tanker, the remaining KC-135 Stratotanker fleet will still average 67 years in age.

“The start of a recapitalization plan is due for our airlift fleet because of the long lead time for platform development,” Reed said.

The U.S. military continues to rely on the C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III for strategic airlift, but their aging status raises concerns. Reed called for immediate planning on a C-17 replacement due to the time required to develop and field a new platform.

In addition to air capabilities, Transcom is working to strengthen America’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet, responsible for transporting personnel and equipment via maritime routes. Congress has approved the purchase of up to 10 used vessels to modernize the fleet, with seven already acquired and funding secured for two more this year.

“I’d like to thank this committee for the support that you gave to make sure that we can … procure two ships off the market,” Reed said, urging lawmakers to accelerate additional purchases.

The government-owned RRF fleet, staffed by civilian mariners, has a median vessel age of 47 years, raising concerns about reliability in future operations.