KC-135R Stratotanker flying overhead against a blue sky, viewed from below with four engines, an extended refueling boom, and “USAF” wing markings visible.

Photo by Senior Airman Delanie Brown, via DVIDS

Entered service 1984

KC-135R Stratotanker

A re-engined jet tanker that burns less fuel itself and has more to give the aircraft counting on it.

The Inside Story

Fuel the tanker burns reaching a rendezvous cannot be passed to another aircraft. The R-model's more efficient engines improve that balance, extending its reach and leaving more fuel for the aircraft waiting behind it. Maintainers keep that capability ready, while pilots and boom operators make the connection work, day or night.

Built from KC-135As

New engines on existing tankers

Fuel for other aircraft

50% more than the KC-135A

One engine's long run

26 years before refurbishment

Night refueling

Boom shadows help judge distance