Aerial refueling

Bangor, Maine, has been named one of four finalists for a new U.S. Air Force air refueling squadron, narrowed down from 14 Air National Guard bases under consideration. Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King learned of the decision Tuesday from Air Force officials, including Michael Saunders, principal deputy assistant secretary for energy, installations and environment, and Maj. Gen. Bryony Terrell, deputy director of the Air National Guard.

If chosen, Bangor's 101st Air Refueling Wing would receive new KC-46A tankers to replace its aging KC-135 Stratotankers, with aircraft arriving as early as 2030. Collins and King cited the wing's strategic location and track record, and pointed to millions in federal funding already secured for Maine's air guard infrastructure, including a $50 million fuel cell hangar built to accommodate the KC-46A. A final decision is expected early next year.