| |
 |
The
KC-135Q model tankers were "unique" within the Air
Force and thus, earned the "Q" model designation.
The aircrews of the "Q" model tankers were the only
ones certified in our "unique" radio silent rendezvous
procedures, and their boom operators were the only ones qualified
to refuel the SR-71.
The KC-135 provided the basis for Boeing's Model 707 civil airliner
and Model 717 (C-135) tanker/transport families, and also set
the design philosophy which extended throughout Boeing's hugely
successful airliner dynasty. |
|
|
| |
The
Q model tankers had special plumbing between their fuel tanks, allowing
them to move JP-4 and the JP-7 fuel used exclusively by the SR-71,
between various tanks. This design gave the KC-135Q the distinction
of being the only airplane capable of refueling the fastest airplane
in the world. Also, if the SR-71 landed somewhere JP-7 fuel was
not available, we used the "Qs" to ferry our fuel.
A special bond developed between our tanker and SR-71 crews that
didn't exist throughout the Air Force. They took considerable pride
in their work because of the exclusive SR-71 refueling. They knew,
and so did we, that the SR-71's mission success was directly related
to our ability to get refueled in the air. They were always there,
somewhere in the murk and dark of night, with a full load of JP-7
waiting for us.
|
|
| |
Specifications
|
Primary
Function:
Aerial
refueling
|
|
Prime
Contractor:
Boeing
|
|
Power
Plant:
Four
Pratt and Whitney J-57 turbofan engines
|
| Length: 136
feet, 3 inches |
| Height:
41 feet, 8 inches |
| Wingspan: 130
feet, 10 inches |
| Speed:
530 miles per hour at 30,000 feet |
| Ceiling:
50,000 feet |
| Date
Deployed:
August 1965 |
|
 |
|
| |
Return
to Support |
|
|
 |
