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Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker

The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker is a U.S.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker is a U.S. Air Force aerial refuelling tanker and transport aircraft first delivered in 1957. It was the first jet-powered tanker in USAF service and has supported air-to-air refuelling, cargo transport, and aeromedical evacuation missions for decades.

Development

The KC-135 was developed by Boeing in the 1950s from the Boeing 367-80 demonstrator. It was designed to replace the piston-powered KC-97 and entered service with the U.S. Air Force in 1957.

Operational history

The aircraft was originally intended to support strategic bombers, then expanded into broader aerial refuelling support for fighters, bombers, and other aircraft. It saw extensive use in the Vietnam War and later operations such as Desert Storm.

Roles and capabilities

The KC-135 primarily performs air-to-air refuelling, but it also supports cargo transport and medical evacuation. USAF fact sheets describe it as capable of carrying cargo and transporting litter and ambulatory patients.

Variants and modernization

The KC-135 fleet has been modernized through engine and systems upgrades, including KC-135R variants. The U.S. Air Force continues to operate upgraded aircraft while phasing in the KC-46 Pegasus.

Key facts

  • The KC-135 was the first jet-powered refuelling tanker in USAF service and replaced the KC-97 Stratofreighter.
  • It entered service in 1957 and became the principal refuelling aircraft of the U.S. Air Force for more than 60 years.
  • The aircraft has been used in major conflicts including the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm.
  • In addition to refuelling, it can carry cargo, passengers, and patients on aeromedical evacuation missions.
  • The USAF has been replacing the fleet gradually with the KC-46 Pegasus, while upgraded KC-135 variants remain in service.
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Canadian context

The KC-135 is relevant to Canadian readers mainly through NATO and coalition operations, where U.S. tanker support has helped extend the range of allied aircraft, including those used alongside Canadian forces.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker?
It is a U.S. military aerial refuelling tanker and transport aircraft used by the United States Air Force.
When did the KC-135 enter service?
It entered service with the U.S. Air Force in 1957.
What is the KC-135 used for?
Its main role is aerial refuelling, but it can also carry cargo, passengers, and patients during aeromedical evacuations.
Was the KC-135 the first jet tanker in USAF service?
Yes. It was the first jet-powered refuelling tanker used by the United States Air Force.
What aircraft is replacing the KC-135?
The Boeing KC-46 Pegasus is intended to replace the KC-135 over time.
Is the KC-135 still in service?
Yes. Upgraded KC-135 aircraft remain in service with the U.S. Air Force and some other air forces.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_KC-135_Stratotanker
    Supports: First jet tanker in USAF service, development lineage, service entry, operational use, replacement by KC-46
  2. United States Air Force — https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1529736/kc-135-stratotanker/
    Supports: Mission, cargo and aeromedical evacuation roles, general characteristics
  3. Air & Space Forces Magazine — https://www.airandspaceforces.com/weapons/kc-135/
    Supports: First flight, delivery dates, tanker role, payload and performance
  4. National Museum of the U.S. Air Force — https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/3123510/boeing-kc-135r-stratotanker/
    Supports: First delivery in 1957, principal refuelling aircraft, modernization