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Boeing's KC-135 Celebrates 70 Years of Service
The KC-135 Stratotanker has been in service for 70 years, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. First taking to the skies on August 31, 1956, this iconic aircraft was designed to meet the needs of the US Air Force's Strategic Air Command.
At the time, the KC-97 Stratofreighter, a piston-engine tanker, was being used for aerial refueling, but it had its limitations. The B-52 Stratofortress, powered by jet engines, required a more efficient fueling system to reach its full potential.
Boeing stepped in to address this need, drawing on the company's own resources to develop the Model 367-80, also known as the 'Dash 80.' This prototype would eventually lead to both the commercial Boeing 707 and the KC-135 Stratotanker.