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Gas and Go

Jan. 13, 2023 |DOD News

Global reach is an important aspect of the U.S. military's warfighting ability, and aerial refueling helps to make global reach a reality.

The fuel arm of an aircraft extends toward an approaching aircraft high above clouds.
The fuel arm of an aircraft extends toward an approaching aircraft high above clouds.
Here Comes the Boom
An Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle prepares to receive fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Dec. 15, 2022.
Download: Full Size (1.42 MB)
Credit: Air Force Staff Sgt. Gerald R. Willis
VIRIN: 221215-F-FF346-0183

Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles assigned to the 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron recently received fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 91st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. The 335th's mission is to deliver airpower and fortify U.S. commitment to deterrence and regional stability.

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Two U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles fly next to each other above the clouds.
The fuel arm of an aircraft extends toward another aircraft hovering below.
Pilots seen in an aircraft from overhead as the fuel arm of another aircraft connects.
An airman looks out below from an enclosed space inside of an aircraft.
A hovering aircraft receives fuel via the arm of another aircraft
An aircraft flies against blue skies with minimal clouds.
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About the 91st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron
01:53
Play

The goal of aerial refueling is to extend the range or time an aircraft can remain in the air.

It also benefits aircraft operating on short runways, which have to limit their takeoff weight to be able clear the end of the runway. A tanker flying overhead can then refuel the plane once it's airborne.

Read More Read More: https://www.defense.gov/News/Feature-Stories/Story/Article/2089889/aerial-refueling-adds-lethality-to-dod-aviation/

Two bank as they fly away from each other over clouds.
Two bank as they fly away from each other over clouds.
Gotta Go
Two U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles fly in formation over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Dec. 15, 2022.
Download: Full Size (1.53 MB)
Credit: Air Force Staff Sgt. Gerald R. Willis
VIRIN: 221215-F-FF346-0307

Air Force refueling

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