The United States Air Force is contemplating the revival of four retired KC-10 tanker aircraft for an undisclosed country in North Africa, with Morocco and Egypt being the leading candidates, according to specialized press reports. A document from the Pentagon has unveiled preparations for this operation, signaling a significant military collaboration on the horizon.
These four impressive military aircraft, which were decommissioned in 2024, might soon take to the skies again, destined for North Africa. The Pentagon is actively seeking companies capable of restoring these KC-10 Extenders, which have been in service for over four decades, primarily used for in-flight refueling of fighter jets. While the exact recipient remains confidential, both Morocco and Egypt are prominently mentioned as potential beneficiaries of this initiative.
The information comes from an official notice published on October 7 by the US Air Force, referenced under FA8625-27-R-B001. This document outlines plans for the refurbishment of up to four aircraft, their transportation to the recipient country, and the training of the crews responsible for operating them. Additionally, interested companies must demonstrate their ability to provide maintenance and logistical support for a duration of three to five years. They have until October 28 to submit their technical capabilities and cost estimates.
American publication Aviation Week, which broke the story on October 8, identifies Morocco and Egypt as the two possible recipients of this aircraft transfer, although neither country has been officially confirmed as the recipient.
Enhancing Morocco's Air Force Capabilities
For the Royal Moroccan Air Force, these aircraft could fill a significant operational gap. The KC-10 is equipped with a rigid boom that allows for refueling F-16s without the need for them to land, and it can also employ a flexible hose system suitable for other aircraft types. This capability would be particularly beneficial for Moroccan fighter jets, which have faced challenges in recent operations. At the end of September, four Moroccan F-16s had to carry nearly seven tons of fuel each to reach France without a national refueling capability. In other exercises, they have had to rely on French or American aircraft for in-flight refueling.
However, a considerable obstacle remains: the KC-10s are aging aircraft. The last unit operated by the US Air Force was retired in September 2024, and restoring them would require significant work, not to mention the ongoing operational and maintenance costs associated with these older models.
As reported by bladi.net.
