Air Force considering Bangor base for new refueling squadron

Bangor Air National Guard Base has emerged as one of the final four contenders in a nationwide search for a new air‑refueling squadron, according to U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King. The senators announced the decision on Tuesday, saying that Bangor has advanced to the next round of evaluation from the 14 bases that initially entered the process.

The new squadron would replace the base’s current fleet of KC‑135 Stratotankers, which are operated by the 101st Air Refueling Wing. The Air Force has highlighted the KC‑46A Pegasus as a more capable platform, citing its greater refueling, cargo, and aeromedical evacuation capabilities. If Bangor is chosen, the first KC‑46A aircraft could arrive by 2030.

Collins and King underscored the strategic value of Bangor and the proven excellence of the 101st Air Refueling Wing. “Bangor’s strategic location and the proven excellence of the 101st Air Refueling Wing make a compelling case for bringing the KC‑46 to Maine,” the senators said. “We will continue to press for Bangor’s selection as the selection process continues.” They added that the announcement from the Air Force represents an “important step toward equipping the MAINEiacs with the advanced aircraft they need to carry out their critical mission.”

The Air Force’s decision comes as part of a broader effort to modernize the country’s aerial refueling capability. By transitioning from the aging KC‑135s to the newer KC‑46A, the 101st would gain enhanced operational flexibility and support a wide range of missions, from routine refueling to medical evacuations.

Further site analyses are planned for the four remaining bases. Officials expect to determine a preferred location for the squadron next year. Meanwhile, local officials in Bangor are preparing for the possibility that the base could become the new hub for the nation’s next-generation refueling aircraft.

The decision is expected to have a ripple effect on the region’s economy and on the readiness of the 101st Air Refueling Wing, which has long been recognized as a top performer in the Air National Guard. Whether Bangor ultimately secures the squadron will be decided in the coming months as the Air Force narrows its choices to a final selection.