Following Brown’s Push, Air Force Selects Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base as Finalist for New KC-46A Operating Base

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, following his push, U.S. Senator Sherod Brown (D-OH) announced that the United States Air Force selected the Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus as one of seven finalists to become the main operating base for the new KC-46A. Between the proven performance of the Ohio Air National Guard's 121^st Air Refueling Wing (ARW) and its two 12,000-foot runways, Rickenbacker Air Guard Station (AGS) is well-positioned to accept the new eight KC-46A aircraft.

"Ohio has a long tradition of innovation and aerospace leadership, and the 121^st Air Refueling Wing supports critical missions throughout the country and around the globe," said Brown. "The Columbus Community and all of Ohio proudly supports the 121^st. Rickenbacker's outstanding facilities and proven performance and wealth of experience makes it an ideal location for the KC-46A operating base."

The KC-46A provides aerial refueling support to the U.S. military and is the next generation of refueling and hauling capabilities. Due to the 121st ARW's proven track record of exemplary performance in the air refueling mission, Rickenbacker is the ideal location to be the main operating base for the KC-46A.

Last week, Brown also secured $8,994,283 for the Columbus Regional Airport Authority to help rehabilitate Runway RL-23R at Rickenbacker to provide first responders closer access to the runway, improving rapid response capabilities and supporting the 121^st's missions. Brown advocated for this investment in the government funding package.

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