Data Quality81%
MASS(Military Archive Scoring System)
ⓘ Regardless of era, the same scoring system applies to all units in the aerial refueling tankers category.
01 / Overview
Boeing NKC-135A Stratotanker
💰 PERFORMANCE / PRICE ASSESSMENT Methodology ↗
AERIAL REFUELING TANKERS
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PERFORMANCE/PRICE
68
UNIT COST (2025 USD)
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ⓘ Performance/Price and MASS score are computed across all units in the aerial refueling tankers category, regardless of era.
02 / Specs & Design
◎General5MOD.5
- First Flight1956
- Service Entry Year1957
- Crew4
- Primary RoleSpecial test missions aircraft
- In ServiceNo
◈Powerplant3MOD.3
- Engine TypeJ57-P-59W turbojet
- Number of Engines4
- Thrust (each)76
▣Performance6MOD.6
- Cruise Speed855 km/h
- Top Speed933 km/h
- Service Ceiling15,240 m
- Maximum Range5,400 km
- Takeoff Run2,290 m
- Unpaved / Short FieldNo
◇Cargo & Capacity3MOD.3
- Maximum Payload37,650 kg
- Cargo Hold Volume146.4
- Rear Loading RampNo
◆Aerial Refueling4MOD.4
- Aerial TankerYes
- Fuel Offload Capacity90,700 kg
- Refueling Method (boom/drogue)flying boom
- In-Flight RefuelableYes
▤Dimensions & Weights5MOD.5
- Length41.53 m
- Wingspan39.88 m
- Height12.7 m
- Empty Weight44,660 kg
- Max Takeoff Weight134,715 kg
⬢Production2MOD.2
- Total Built1
- Operators2
▲Service History4MOD.4
- Retirement Year2008
- Production Start1954
- Production End1965
- Operational StatusRetired
03 / History
05 / MASS Score
AERIAL REFUELING TANKERS RANKING Aerial Refueling Tankers
MASS RANKINGSMASS ↗
16AERIAL REFUELING TANKERS1540UNITED STATES · ALL WEAPONS13PERFORMANCE/PRICE · AERIAL REFUELING TANKERS
ⓘ Rankings are within theAerial Refueling Tankerscategory.
📖 TERMS ON THIS PAGE2terms
Aerial tanker: military aircraft equipped to refuel other aircraft in flight using a system of hoses or booms.
Capable of receiving fuel from another aircraft while in flight, extending its operational range and endurance.
These terms are listed automatically because they appear on this page.full encyclopedia →
📚 Sources