The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker and its many variations has helped extend the range of a multitude of aircraft during it’s almost 60 years of service to the U.S. and a host of other nations.
It is only because of the KC-135 and her bigger sibling, the KC-10 Extender, that the United States Air Force is able to deploy and project power as quickly and efficiently as it does. The type entered service in 1957, with more than 800 of them built, and some of which could remain in service until 2040.
The Navy refers to her as the “Iron Maiden,” and whether you’re a fan of the -135 or not, its classic, sexy Boeing Model 707 lines are absolutely unmistakable. Another noteworthy statistic? It is one of only six aircraft designs to see at least five decades of continuous service with its original operator. No small feat, and testament to the maintainers who keep the aircraft ready to accomplish its mission.
A Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker from the 141st Air Refueling Wing “drags” a flight of F-16Cs of the 162nd Fighter Wing during Exercise Sentry Eagle 2015. (Photo by Scott Wolff)
Members of the -135 community recently put together a pretty cool video, one we ran across today and wanted to be sure to share. Our mobility assets are the unsung heroes in our ability to establish and maintain air dominance anytime, anywhere. Remember, No One Kicks A$$ Without Tanker Gas!
(Featured photo by Scott Wolff)