The tanker debate: Why bigger is better

[unhappycamper]

The tanker debate: Why bigger is better
By Charles Horner, Michael Ryan and Michael Short

In the near future, the Air Force will select a replacement for the KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft. Some have suggested a smaller aircraft would be better, but we doubt the wisdom of that advice.

Aerial refueling capability is one of the principal elements that make the U.S. the world’s premier military power. Air refueling of our airlift fleet and combat aircraft allows rapid, long-range deployment of our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and special operation forces.

In wartime, aerial refueling provides our combat aircraft with the extended range and staying power needed for air dominance, deep strike and support of our ground troops. Every day in Afghanistan and Iraq operations, aerial refueling is critical to success.

Aerial refueling is a lifesaver for our critically wounded warriors who can be flown, nonstop, to U.S. hospitals for urgent care.

In humanitarian disasters, air refueling can assure critical supplies get there in hours, not days.


Rest of article at: http://www.airforcetimes.com/community/opinion/airforce_backtalk_tanker_080128/



uhc comment: And aerial refueling explains why the military uses 340,000 barrels of oil a day --> http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=259&topic_id=6910