| Topic | Development and Testing of the APRUSS for the KC-46A |
|---|---|
| Description | Airmen from the US Air Force's 22nd Air Refueling Wing Innovation Lab at McConnell Air Force Base have invented a new remote start device for the KC-46A Pegasus, called the Auxiliary Power Unit Start System (APRUSS). The APRUSS uses remote activation, cutting down on mission response times and enhancing mission efficiency by ensuring the aircraft is ready when crews arrive at the aircraft. Capt. Timothy Schwanke, 22nd ARW Innovation Lab chief, mentioned that the APRUSS has already proven to significantly reduce the alert time for the KC-46 crews as they are conducting routine training, comparing it to the older KC-135 Stratotanker. |
| Development Team | Staff Sgt. Hunter Diedrich, the noncommissioned officer in charge, and Senior Airman Douglas Vargas, an intern, oversaw the design and build of the APRUSS prototype. Diedrich tackled the physical design, while Vargas focused on the software aspect. |
| Operational Testing | The first operational test of the APRUSS was a success without any issues, increasing confidence in its reliability. The design allows activation from afar using cellular signals, adding to its operational flexibility. |
| Collaboration and Funding | The Innovation Lab collaborated with FirePoint Innovation at Wichita State University and the National Security Innovation Network, securing $250,000 from the Defense Innovation Unit to continue development. They also partnered with PWI for ongoing research, prototyping, and commercialization. |
| Future Prospects | The technology is currently being developed at McConnell AFB but is anticipated to be adopted by all KC-46 units once fully developed. This innovative remote starter will potentially be used in both training exercises and real-world missions. |
| Aircraft Capability | The KC-46A Pegasus represents a significant upgrade in the US Air Force's tanker fleet with enhanced refueling, cargo, and aeromedical evacuation capabilities compared to the KC-135. It is equipped with a state-of-the-art refueling system and can operate independently with its hose and drogue system. |
Revolutionizing Readiness: The Air Force’s New Remote Start Tech for the KC-46A Pegasus