THE BACKBONE OF GLOBAL REACH

Since entering service in 1957, the KC-135 Stratotanker has been the backbone of the U.S. Air Force’s aerial refueling mission. For more than six decades, the aircraft has extended the range and endurance of American and allied aircraft, making it possible to project airpower anywhere in the world. Beyond refueling, the KC-135 also supports cargo transport and aeromedical evacuation missions, making it one of the Air Force’s most versatile aircraft.

Today, McConnell Air Force Base is one of the nation’s premier tanker bases, where KC-135 crews continue supporting missions across the globe every day. Visitors to Frontiers in Flight will have the opportunity to see this legendary aircraft up close and learn more about the critical role it plays in global mobility and national defense.