USAF outlines evolution from propeller-driven to modern jet-powered tankers

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By Sky Industry News

Dec 22, 2024

The United States Air Force has a long history of operating aerial refueling tankers, which are crucial for extending the range and operational time of fighter jets. Since the 1950s, the Air Force has utilized various tanker models, including the KC-97 Stratofreighter, KC-135 Stratotanker, KC-10 Extender, and most recently, the KC-46 Pegasus.

Aerial refueling began with tests in 1929 using a C-2A biplane but gained significant momentum with the advent of jet engines. The Boeing-designed "flying boom" technique revolutionized refueling operations. According to Air Mobility Command, "Making use of a Boeing-designed ‘flying boom’, aerial refueling techniques for the Air Force changed overnight with the KC-97."

The KC-97 Stratofreighter entered service in 1951 but struggled to keep pace with newer jets due to its propeller-driven design. Despite this limitation, it remained in service until 1973.

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The transition to jet-powered tankers began with the introduction of the KC-135 Stratotanker in 1956. Built from Boeing's 707 airliner design, it became a mainstay in US and allied forces worldwide. "Strategic Air Command’s dream of an all-jet Air Force came with the arrival of the KC-135 Stratotanker," stated Air Mobility Command.

Following this was the widebody KC-10 Extender based on McDonnell Douglas's DC-10 jetliner. Introduced in 1980, it offered extended range and fuel capacity but was retired early in 2024.

Currently serving is the KC-46 Pegasus built on Boeing's 767 platform. It offers enhanced capabilities over its predecessors and is being adopted by international partners like Japan and Israel. Boeing highlights that "The KC-46A delivers more fuel at all ranges and from shorter runways than the KC-135 aircraft it’s replacing."

Looking ahead, future tanker designs include JetZero's blended-wing body aircraft aimed at zero-carbon emissions by 2030 and Lockheed Martin's Next Generation Aerial Refueling System (NGAS), which could feature stealth capabilities for contested environments.

"The JetZero Blended Wing is...the best first step toward...zero-carbon emissions aviation," says JetZero about their innovative design slated for operation by 2030.

Lockheed Martin's NGAS may enter service around 2035 but faces potential affordability challenges according to recent discussions within the Air Force.