Rocky Mountains, USA – On January 10, 2026, a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 185th Air Refueling Wing successfully refueled an F-35A Lightning II belonging to the Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 115th Fighter Wing during flight.

The aerial operation took place over the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, showcasing precision coordination between the tanker and fighter aircraft.

The mid-air refueling allowed the F-35A to extend its mission range without returning to base, demonstrating advanced operational capabilities of both aircraft.

The KC-135 Stratotanker played a critical role, maintaining stable flight while transferring fuel to the stealth fighter in challenging mountain conditions.

The operation highlights the ongoing readiness and interoperability of Air National Guard units in complex aerial maneuvers.