Mildenhall KC-135 Tankers

[Smudge]

I was at Mildenhall today. Just as I was leaving a KC-135 departed. I noted it was fitted with hose and drogue pods under each wingtip. Can these be fitted to any KC-135 as required? or are some of the Mildenhall fleet modified to carry these?

I did not think to note if it had the normal boom fitted, or get the serial number, but it did carry the Mildenhall station markings.

Just interested, and might like to do a model of one if I come across an ERTL KC135R.

Cheers.

[c.smith10]

As far as I'm aware all KC-135's are able to carry drogue pods, there's also a fitting allowing a hose and drogue to be attached to the standard refuelling boom.

[Smudge]

Hi, fellow Smithy,

Cheers for the quick reply. Yes, I have seen the drogue attached to the boom before, but never the pods, so it just struck me as unusual.

I guess Mildenhall tankers use the pods for NATO and RAF types, or visiting USAF/USN types that require them?

Thanks.

ps. like the 'Big D' avatar.

[c.smith10]

I'm a mildenhall local, (if you couldn't tell), so I'm used to seeing the pods and the boom modification. Were you at mildenhall when the 15's and 22's diverted in?

[Smudge]

Hi,

Yes, I was there this afternoon. Just by chance I had decided to stop by. Watched the two F-22's depart, then had to get off myself. Hope to return soon.

I am up near Kings Lynn.

[c.smith10]

I'm lucky enough to work virtually on the flight line so caught the raptors both coming and going!

[Smudge]

Very lucky, I am slightly envious.

[Richard E]

It looks like only twenty KC-135s were modified to accept the hose and drogue pods - referred to as the Multi-Point Refuelling System (MPRS):

http://www.fightercontrol.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=287&p=771729

You may find the Heller's boxing of the AMT KC-135 includes the pods.

[Smudge]

Thanks Richard, and cheers for the link.

Interesting point about the Heller '135, I will keep my eyes out for one.

All the best.

[Agent K]

I was at Mildenhall today. Just as I was leaving a KC-135 departed. I noted it was fitted with hose and drogue pods under each wingtip. Can these be fitted to any KC-135 as required? or are some of the Mildenhall fleet modified to carry these?

I did not think to note if it had the normal boom fitted, or get the serial number, but it did carry the Mildenhall station markings.

Just interested, and might like to do a model of one if I come across an ERTL KC135R.

Cheers.

Yes they carry wing mounted drogue pods and the usual boom. It wasn't in the original KC135 design and have been retrofitted which incorporates significant structural and electrical work (be aware they need to install the structure, wiring, fuel attachments, controls, indicators etc. etc.) so no they can't be fitted to any of the fleet, only those that have had the modifications, details of which are linked above I think.

Edited April 20, 2016 by Agent K

[Julien]

Very lucky, I am slightly envious.

I am more than slightly envious!