SC Missouri News

The U.S. Air Force has announced that Key Field in Meridian, Mississippi, is a contender to host the new KC-46 aircraft. This decision is part of a "down-selection" process that has narrowed the field to seven potential sites nationwide.

Mississippi's Congressional Delegation has been actively promoting Key Field, an Air National Guard Base, as a strong candidate for this selection. Congressman Michael Guest expressed his satisfaction with the progress made so far: “The 186th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) in Meridian is a leader in aerial refueling, and I am pleased that Key Field Air National Guard Base is one of seven sites that is advancing in the KC-46A basing decision process.” He acknowledged the support from Senators Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith and Representatives Bennie Thompson, Trent Kelly, and Mike Ezell.

Senator Roger Wicker highlighted the potential benefits for both national security and the local community if Key Field is chosen: “Making it this far in the down-selection process is an accomplishment. If Key Field is ultimately chosen, it would cement and extend the base’s role in our country’s national security infrastructure for decades to come.”

Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith also welcomed this development: “We welcome this positive development for the future of Key Field and Lauderdale County. As the process moves forward, we will continue to forcefully make the case that Key Field will be the best place for this important mission.”

Key Field's existing infrastructure makes it a suitable candidate for hosting KC-46s. The base currently houses KC-135 planes operated by over 1,200 officers and airmen from the 186th ARW. The transition to KC-46s would replace these aging tankers without requiring significant modifications to the base.

Additionally, Key Field's strategic location near refueling tracks over Southeastern United States and Gulf of Mexico offers rapid servicing capabilities for various aircraft fleets.

Congressman Michael Guest represents Mississippi’s Third Congressional District and serves on several committees including Ethics, Appropriations, and Homeland Security.