Two KC-135s flew 72-hour endurance missions to demonstrate tanker “drop-in” concept

The KC-135 has set a new endurance mission record of 72 hours by two of the aerial refueling tankers from the 92nd Air Refueling Wing.

U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 92nd Air Refueling Wing prepare to deploy along with four KC-135 Stratotankers to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, March 8, 2022. This deployment was conducted in full coordination with host nations and NATO military authorities, and is intended to increase readiness and enhance NATO’s collective defense. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman First Class Haiden Morris)

The jets went airborne and landed repeatedly over the 72 hours and had at least one engine running while being refueled and serviced on the ground.

Engine-running flight crew changes were also carried out over the three-day mission. Both aircraft refueled B-2 bombers, B-52s, an E-3 Sentry, and an E-6B Mercury.

Engine oil servicing was only done during one of the engine running crew changes (ERRCs), allowing the crews to demonstrate tanker “drop-in” concept.

The previous KC-135 endurance mission record was 40 hours and was also set but the 92nd ARW in March this year.

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