USAF OC-135Bs to be retired without replacement?

[Grey Havoc]

Well, unless Biden gets into the Oval Office that is.

The Air Force cancels its Open Skies recapitalization program after US pulls out from treaty

The service formally canceled the program on July 14.

www.defensenews.com

 

[RavenOne]

Over the decade it’s a pleasure to see the OC-135B grace the skies over here, anyhow my photos of one weekend arrival and departure few years back at RAF Midlenhall.

fingers crossed the program continues


Cheers

 

[Foo Fighter]

Rather like the BUFF, could an engine replacement program keep them viable? The new BUFF engines for a start.

 

[SSgtC]

Rather like the BUFF, could an engine replacement program keep them viable? The new BUFF engines for a start.

It's more than just the engines. The C-135 is based on the Boeing 707, and parts just aren't available for it anymore. At least not without cannibalizing other airframes. Plus, even with more fuel efficient engines, a Gulfstream can do the same job for probably less than half the cost per flight hour.

 

[Foo Fighter]

Ta mate, I suppose the range is not really that much of an issue.