Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker

20 Apr 2026 · © Raid_nations02

A USAF Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker making a low approach before touchdown, showcasing its iconic refueling boom and CFM56 engines.

4 likes 1 comments

Comments (1)

Kiwi Aviation · 20 Apr 2026

Great photo 📸

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Aircraft

KC-135R Stratotanker KC-135R

Standard U.S. Air Force gray

00348

Registration

Airline

United States Air Force (military operator)

Manufacturer

Boeing

Gear

Canon EOS Rebel T7I 55-300MM

Achievements

Vintage Voyager, Runway Royalty, Boeing Beginner, Military Maverick

4 badges earned

Location

Lakeland Linder International Airport

LAL/KLAL

27.9893, -82.0207

Open map

Lakeland Linder International Airport LAL

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

The KC-135 is the primary aerial refueling tanker for the USAF, derived from the Boeing 367-80 prototype and entering service in 1957. The KC-135R is an upgraded version with new engines and avionics.

Fleet Rarity

Hundreds remain in service, but new production ceased decades ago. The KC-135 fleet size is declining as KC-46 Pegasus enters service.

Record Flights

KC-135s have supported a vast number of historic long-range and combat missions, refueling bombers, fighters, and reconnaissance aircraft worldwide.

Safety & Events

KC-135s have participated in nearly every U.S. air conflict since the Vietnam War; several have set air endurance records with multiple refuelings.

Future Outlook

Gradual retirement over coming decades as KC-46 and possibly future tankers replace the KC-135 fleet.

Specifications

CFM International CFM56 (F108 engines)

Engine

39.88 m

Wingspan

41.53 m

Length

2,419 km (air refueling mission) to over 12,000 km with ferry tanks

Range

850 km/h

Speed

Boom operator 3 crew, up to 90,719 kg of fuel

Capacity

146,285 kg

MTOW

12.70 m

Height

22,000 lbf (98 kN) per engine

Thrust

ICAO Chapter 3, variable by configuration (typically 92-102 dB for CFM56-powered variants)

Noise