Aerial Refueling: The Need for a Multipoint, Dual-System Capability

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Aerial Refueling: The Need for a Multipoint, Dual-System Capability

M. R. Cobb

In view of continuing growth in air refuelable fighters and the likely shortfall in tanker aircraft during large-scale conflict, the United States Air Force should reexamine its current policy of refueling tactical fighters with the boom and receptacle system only. At the present time, all modern Air Force fighters must use the same single boom and receptacle system employed by bomber and airlift aircraft, a system that allows the tanker to service only one aircraft at a time. Because of budget constraints on tanker procurement as well as wartime operational demands on tactical fighters, we must find a more efficient means of employing these vital defense assets. This paper examines the evolution of air refueling concepts and doctrines and applies the lessons learned to an argument supporting probe and drogue refueling as the best means of supporting modern tactical fighter operations. The evidence indicates that to provide the most effective, efficient means of refueling tactical fighters, as well as airlift and bomber forces, a multipoint, dual refueling system is needed for the tanker force with a complementary probe and drogue system installed on tactical fighters. (AW)