The Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker has been a crucial player in aerial refueling for the United States Air Force for over six decades. Resembling a civilian Boeing airliner, the Stratotanker is powered by the same CFM 56 engines as the 737. Nonetheless, its development represents a unique evolution rather than a simple adaptation of a passenger aircraft.
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During the early 1950s, Boeing was busy creating the 367-80 prototype, which today resembles modern airliners. In 1954, amidst the Cold War and just a few years after World War II, Boeing showcased the “Dash 80” prototype to military officials and subsequently to airline executives.
The Dash 80 made quite an impression on those in the airline industry, leading to the eventual development of the Boeing 707, which has become iconic in aviation history.
The sales pitch resonated
The military’s response was equally favorable, resulting in an order for 29 aircraft that would later be designated as KC-135s in 1954. A total of 732 Stratotankers would eventually roll off the production line. The Air Force requested modifications to the Dash 80’s design, asking for it to be extended by an additional foot for improved capacity as both a tanker and a transport aircraft. In 1955, during the Dash 80’s world tour, test pilot Tex Johnston executed a series of barrel rolls to generate excitement among prospective buyers and showcase the aircraft’s capabilities.
Fast forward 72 years, and both the Air Force and the Air National Guard continue to operate a variant of one of the earliest jetliners. The modern Stratotanker has evolved considerably; it boasts a thrust performance of 86,536 pounds—an improvement from the 40,000 pounds of the Dash 80—and features advanced avionics tailored for its dual roles as a command center or reconnaissance asset.
