The face of aerial warfare is poised for a radical transformation with the impending arrival of the Next Generation Air Refueling System (NGAS), also known as the KC-Z, a stealthy tanker designed to operate undetected in frontline support.
The NGAS, as depicted in concept images by Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works, showcases innovative lambda-style wings for both stealth and structural strength, with engines cleverly positioned near the fuselage. While the artist’s renderings hint at a smaller size compared to existing tankers, the real impact of NGAS is its ability to carry a substantial amount of fuel closer to contested airspace, thereby providing crucial support to combat aircraft.
Gen. Mike Minihan, commander of Air Mobility Command, emphasizes the system-based approach of NGAS, stating, “It’s not one airplane. It’s a system, so it’s not one-size-fits-all. I’m not looking to develop a fleet that has to handle every threat environment.” The plan is to deploy a stealth or stealthy tanker that can support fighters and ground-attack aircraft near the frontlines, while traditional tankers operate at a safer distance. This dual approach allows for a resilient supply line, essential for U.S. aircraft engaging from extreme ranges.
As reported by Defense One, the Air Force’s fiscal year 2025 budget reflects a strategic shift, with divestment from 16 older KC-135 Stratotankers and the purchase of 15 new KC-46A Pegasus tankers. This reallocation is set to expedite the development of NGAS and ensure its implementation in the near future.
Additionally, Lockheed Martin’s concept suggests that NGAS will not only be a refueling aircraft. Its stealth features, such as the blended wing/body design, recessed air intakes, and canted vertical stabilizers, hint at broader applications, potentially including onboard kinetic defense systems capable of countering air-to-air missiles. This indicates an evolution in tanker capabilities since World War II when bombers were outfitted with machine guns to fend off enemy fighters.
Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works division, the birthplace of numerous legendary military aircraft such as the U-2 and F-35 Lightning II, continues this tradition of innovation with the NGAS. The NGAS’ design, with its futuristic profile and stealth characteristics, is expected to serve as a multi-mission platform, capable of conducting intelligence, reconnaissance, command and control, and acting as arsenal ships for swarms and missiles.
The urgency for such advancements is underlined by the Air Force’s mobility arm, which aims to have tomorrow’s aerial tanking fleet include some stealthy aircraft with “exquisite capabilities.” These aircraft are meant to operate in “extreme threat areas” and tackle more than just refueling and cargo missions, according to Gen. Mike Minihan at the Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium.
Relevant articles:
– NGAS: The Air Force’s New Flying Stealth Tanker Could Be a Game Changer, The National Interest
– Skunk Works Reveals Its Stealthy Tanker That Will Play Hide and Seek With Russia and China, Popular Mechanics
– Lockheed Skunk Works releases first images of its innovative aerial tanker, New Atlas
– USAF plans stealthy tankers for ‘extreme threat areas’, Air Force Tech Connect