A private air tanker has refuelled a US Air Force military aircraft for the first time in history

Late last month, a historic event took place at the Exercise Resolute Hunter event. A private air tanker successfully refuelled a US Air Force aircraft.

Here's What We Know

The U.S. Air Force has been exploring the possibility of using third-party tankers for exercises and non-military missions for many years. This would reduce the load on the service's fleet of aerial refuelling tankers.

Late last month, Metrea Strategic Mobility's KC-135R tanker provided aerial refuelling for US Air Force aircraft during Exercise Resolute Hunter. From 23 to 29 of June, it refuelled RC-135 Rivet Joint and E-3 Sentry.

It is important to note that such a procedure is not unique to the US Department of Defence as a whole. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units regularly use commercial aerial refuelling services during exercises.

The RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft was the first to refuel. It was followed by a KC-135R refuelling of an E-3 Sentry long-range radar detection aircraft. Metrea Strategic Mobility sent its KC-135R to the UK to participate in the Royal International Air Tattoo. The event began on 14 July and will conclude today, 16 July.

Source: Metrea