In 2018, a congressional inquiry revealed that the U.S. Air Force was spending nearly $1,300 to replace each reheatable coffee cup used on KC-10 aircraft. These specialized cups, designed to plug into the aircraft’s electrical system to reheat beverages during flight, had handles that were prone to breaking. When a handle broke, the Air Force opted to replace the entire cup rather than repair it, leading to significant costs.
Over a three-year period, the 60th Aerial Port Squadron at Travis Air Force Base in California spent nearly $56,000 replacing these cups. In 2018 alone, they purchased 25 cups for approximately $32,000, averaging about $1,280 per cup.
The high cost was attributed to the cups’ specialized design, which required Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification due to their integration with the aircraft’s electrical system. However, alternative solutions, such as 3D printing replacement handles for about 50 cents each, were identified as more cost-effective options.
This situation highlights concerns about procurement practices and the need for more efficient spending within the Department of Defense. Instances like this have prompted discussions about the importance of responsible budgeting and the potential for cost-saving measures in military expenditures.
In response to the controversy, the Air Force temporarily halted purchases of the expensive coffee cups and explored more cost-effective alternatives. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of scrutinizing government spending to ensure taxpayer dollars are used efficiently.
