Airmen and officials at Offutt AFB, Neb., vigorously prepared to ensure floodwaters on the rising Missouri River would not disrupt critical base operations. “As with all operations, planning is the key,” stated Col. Michael Allshouse, 55th Mission Support Group commander. Mainly concerned about the effects of water released north of the base, Army Corps of Engineers officials inspected the base’s dike system, reinforcing key areas with sandbags. “We’re fairly confident that the main installation will not flood. We’ll continue to keep a close eye on them as the water rises and will be prepared if something unforeseen happens,” said Allshouse. In the event of flooding, plans are in order to move aircraft to higher ground. Airmen are preparing alternate working arrangements to report as usual in any event. River levels are expected to crest on Wednesday. (Offutt report by SrA. Peter Danielson)
The Air Force and Boeing agreed to a nearly $2.4 billion contract for a new lot of KC-46 aerial tankers on Nov. 21. The deal, announced by the Pentagon, is for 15 new aircraft in Lot 11 at a cost of $2.389 billion—some $159 million per tail.