Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. A U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft refuels from a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft during Operation Epic Fury, March 31, 2026.

Even as the face of modern air power has evolved, the aerial tanker, in many ways, remains the backbone of the United States Air Force. Tankers can refuel planes in flight, expanding other planes' ...

The vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean has become the world’s most critical theater for military air power projection, where aerial refueling tankers serve as the lifeline connecting American bases to ...

Plans to field a next-generation replacement Air Force tanker are being pushed aside in the latest budget request as the service looks to invest in upgrades and new technologies for existing refueling ...

Aerial tankers might not have the same heroic image as jet fighters or the same firepower heavy bombers do, but their strategic importance is unrivaled in the day-to-day operations and movement of the ...

We have updated our Privacy Policy. Please review to learn more. By continuing to use our services, you agree to these updates. By Matt White Published Jun 16, 2026 ...

In addition to questionable availability rates, the Air Force tanker fleet also suffers from severe sustainment issues, ...