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KC-135A Stratotanker
Boeing · USA
Entering service in June 1957, the KC-135 was the first jet-powered refueling tanker. Based on the same prototype as the 707 airliner, it allowed the Strategic Air Command to keep bombers in the air indefinitely, a cornerstone of Cold War deterrence.
Technical Specifications
| First Flight | 1957 |
|---|---|
| Max Speed | 933 km/h |
| Range | 2,419 km (with 68,000kg transfer fuel) |
| Ceiling | 15,200 m |
| Engines | 4x Pratt & Whitney J57-P-59W turbojets |
Armament & Payload
None.
Next Aircraft in Timeline
Buccaneer (Design) →
Cargo
KC-135A Stratotanker
Boeing · USA
Entering service in June 1957, the KC-135 was the first jet-powered refueling tanker. Based on the same prototype as the 707 airliner, it allowed the Strategic Air Command to keep bombers in the air indefinitely, a cornerstone of Cold War deterrence.
Technical Specifications
| First Flight | 1957 |
|---|---|
| Max Speed | 933 km/h |
| Range | 2,419 km (with 68,000kg transfer fuel) |
| Ceiling | 15,200 m |
| Engines | 4x Pratt & Whitney J57-P-59W turbojets |
Armament & Payload
None.