KC-135 Stratotanker

This year seems to be one in which I’ve been exposed to the KC-135 a lot. I’ve had the pleasure to fly the KC-135R simulator, I’ve been taken on various tours in and around the aircraft (including a chance to sit the cockpit), and I’ve seen them fly a whole lot this year.

This aircraft has always been one I’ve liked, but it doesn’t get the respect (nor do its crews or maintenance people) it deserves.

Let’s face it. Without the KC-135, air operations for the United States, France, Singapore, and many others (joint operations) would cease to exist.

With the recent retirement of the C-9 Nightingale, the KC-135 may get another role as a medical evac plane (Air Force Reserve -135’s that is).

And then there’s the ever vital cargo carrying capacity that the KC-135 offers…….up to around 83,000 pounds which isn’t that bad in my opinion.

Anyway, here are some random photos from the internet I thought I’d post just because I love Boeing’s Stratotanker so much.

It’s actually one of the aircraft I’d like to be able to fly once I comission.

Not sure if this is a KC-135 or one of the special variants (i.e. RC-135, etc.), but I liked the photo so on the thread it goes.

One of the originals…..back in pristine condition. I love that photo. It has an air about it.

As the motto goes: NKAWTG (Nobody Kicks Ass Without Tanker Gas!)