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HUTCHP
22nd Dec 2023, 10:41
Interesting article in Key Aero about 100th ARW KC-135's practising low level sorties ( down 1000ft 0 over Wales recently. Looks like this is going to be a new tactic to get AAR closer to the front line.

KeyAero asked for more details on why such training would be useful to air-to-air refuelling tanker crews and when such low-altitude flying would be required in an operational scenario. The 100th ARW spokesperson said: “This training is essential for flying below hostile radar, enabling closer proximity to the front line with increased fuel capacity for receivers.” They added: “…we’re giving any potential adversary a different problem set to address on a strategic level by creating problems for them at the tactical level. When adversaries know the USAF (https://www.key.aero/us-air-force-usaf) can employ airpower in a contested environment, side-by-side with capable Ally and Partner forces, they are more likely to respect national sovereignty and make decisions that improve global safety and security. Additionally, the 100th ARW Vision is to extend reach and deterrence through warrior-minded airmen.”

Wonder if the RAF MRTT will follow suit.

Hutch

212man
22nd Dec 2023, 21:16
Equals - a good excuse for a wazz!

DogTailRed2
22nd Dec 2023, 21:54
Since when do you have to send a tanker in below radar? I thought the tankers were well away from any threats for obvious reasons?

waterbottle
23rd Dec 2023, 01:24
Since when do you have to send a tanker in below radar? I thought the tankers were well away from any threats for obvious reasons?

When the range of enemy weapons systems is greater than the range of friendly strikers.

dead_pan
23rd Dec 2023, 09:10
Looking forward to those vids of 135s hoving their way through the Mach loop (I know, a 1000', but one can dream)

On which note I did see a video of a C5 going through Stars Wars canyon

DogTailRed2
23rd Dec 2023, 09:18
When the range of enemy weapons systems is greater than the range of friendly strikers.
Sounds a dangerous mission. Good luck with that one.

Dominator2
23rd Dec 2023, 10:15
It was done years ago with "Albert" down in the Falklands.

With the KC135 one wonders which will occur first, Unacceptable High Fatigue Usage or the first accident due to lack of experience and currency.

To be competent in the environment would require more than one low level trip a quarter!

SASless
23rd Dec 2023, 14:30
Several times the Tanker Crews went towards the hostile areas to "tow" damaged aircraft back for a safe landing that would not have been possible had the Tankers stayed out in their orbit area.

Back to the future: Tankers saving fighter pilots has happened before (http://flightlines.airforcetimes.com/2016/02/12/back-to-the-future-tankers-saving-fighter-pilots-has-happened-before/)