1997/09 - Tanker of the skies

The addition of the KC-135R tankers to the arsenal facilitates the RSAF’s deployments abroad and enables flying operations to be sustained for long periods. These tankers provide mission support through the transportation of troops and equipment, and can perform aerial refuelling on all fighter platforms. The KC-135Rs operate out of 112 Squadron at Changi Air Base (West) and replaced the ageing KC-130s.

Acquired in September 1997, the KC-135R provides better support for the RSAF's overseas training and exercises.

Training on the KC-135R began in 1998 under the control of the Peace Guardian detachment at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas.

“We train extensively in countries like Australia, Thailand, and the US. We have to transport crew back and forth and we need support aircraft. The addition of new air-to-air refuelling aircraft will enable the RSAF to take a further step in making sure that we have the type of Air Force that is necessary for Singapore to defend itself.”

Dr Tony Tan, Minister for Defence, 1995 having seen how air-to-air refuelling is conducted during a visit to Tengah Air Base