In a recent interview given by the Chief of the General Staff of the Argentine Air Force to Zona Militar, the head of the institution confirmed that the process has begun to carry out the hot acquisition of two KC-135R Stratotanker tankers from the U.S. Air Force. These aircraft will provide direct support to the new F-16AM/BM Fighting Falcon fighters that the Force will incorporate in the coming months.
When asked about the possibilities of incorporating tanker aircraft compatible with the F-16AM/BM Fighting Falcon fighters, Brigadier Gustavo Javier Valverde confirmed to Zona Militar that “…the Argentine Air Force has initiated the request process (LOR – Letter of Request) for up to 2 KC-135R aircraft in Ramp to Ramp (hot transfer) mode. This process has been initiated, awaiting the availability of the aircraft and the completion of studies…”.
It is worth noting that the Argentine Air Force currently operates two KC-130H Hercules, aircraft whose refueling system is not compatible with that of the institution’s future F-16AM/BM fighters. Historically, the Force has used the probe-and-drogue system for aerial refueling, which was present in the entire A-4 Skyhawk family and proved its value during the Malvinas conflict in 1982.
In May of last year, the Chief of the Cabinet of Ministers had confirmed the start of studies and procedures for the incorporation of Boeing KC-135 tankers, without specifying versions at that time. As we reported, these negotiations, encompassed within the purchase of the F-16s from Denmark and a weapons package from the U.S., were being carried out very discreetly.
The Chief of the Cabinet detailed at the time that “…the incorporation of KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft in Ramp to Ramp mode is planned once this type of aircraft is available. For this, administrative processes have been initiated to analyze different alternatives…”.
Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker
The Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker has historically been one of the main platforms of the U.S. Air Force to provide aerial refueling capability, having performed this role for more than 60 years.
Based on the legendary Boeing 707, over the years the KC-135s were modified with new CFM-56 engines manufactured by CFM-International. “…The redesigned tanker aircraft, designated as KC-135R or KC-135T, can offload 50% more fuel, is 25% more fuel efficient, costs 25% less to operate, and is 96% quieter than the KC-135A…,” states the U.S. Air Force.
In addition to its aerial refueling capability thanks to its boom system, the KC-135R is capable of transporting stretchers and ambulatory patients using support platforms during aeromedical evacuations or carrying up to six containers. Depending on the fuel storage configuration, the KC-135 Stratotanker can transport up to 38,000 kg of cargo.
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