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Caption:
The KC-135 Stratotanker's primary mission is to refuel long-range
bombers. It also provides aerial refueling support to Air Force, Navy,
Marine Corps and allied aircraft. Four turbojets, mounted under wings
swept 35 degrees, power the KC-135. Nearly all internal fuel can be
pumped through the tanker's flying boom, the KC-135's primary fuel
transfer method. A special shuttlecock-shaped drogue, attached to and
trailed behind the flying boom, is used to refuel aircraft fitted with
probes. An operator stationed in the rear of the plane controls the
boom. A cargo deck above the refueling system holds passengers or
cargo. Depending on fuel storage configuration, the KC-135 can carry up
to 83,000 pounds (37,350 kilograms) of cargo. (U.S. Air Force photo by
Master Sgt. Dave Nolan)
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