Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska has announced that the Air Force will finally deliver four KC-135 refueling aircraft to Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. This decision comes after a delay following an initial commitment made by the Air Force in March 2021, with an expected arrival date set for 2023. On October 8, 2024, Senator Sullivan expressed his frustration over the delay in a letter to Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall.

Senator Sullivan stated, "The Air Force has dramatically increased the fighter assets in Alaska in recent years, yet the necessary supporting refueling force has remained stagnant." He emphasized the strategic importance of Alaska as a hub for air combat power and noted recent aggressive actions from adversaries near Alaska's coastline. "Over the course of just two months this year, Alaska-based Airmen intercepted six separate incursions into the Alaska ADIZ—including the first-ever joint Russian and Chinese bomber task force—each requiring a nearly 2,000 mile roundtrip sortie," he added.

Sullivan highlighted his persistent efforts over the past decade to bring additional aerial refueling capacity to Alaska. He has engaged with senior military and administration officials on this issue, citing Alaska's critical role in U.S. national defense and its unique aerial training complexes. The state also faces increasing incursions by Russian and Chinese forces into its Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

"We look forward to finally welcoming these important aircraft and the 220 active duty personnel and their families to our great state," said Sullivan, emphasizing how this move will enhance America's security interests in the region.