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The KC-135 Stratotanker has been a cornerstone of United States Air Force aerial refuelling since its introduction in 1957. Developed from Boeing’s 367-80 demonstrator, which also provided the foundation for the commercial 707, it was designed to keep pace with Strategic Air Command’s jet-powered bombers. Its ability to transfer fuel in flight extended their range and endurance, making it an essential component of America’s Cold War nuclear deterrent.
The KC-135 first flew on 31 August 1956, and the first operational aircraft was delivered to Castle Air Force Base, California, in June 1957. A total of 732 KC-135s were delivered to the USAF, with the last arriving in 1965. Although closely related in appearance and ancestry, the KC-135 was not a converted Boeing 707.
Originally powered by four Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engines, many aircraft were subsequently re-engined with CFM International CFM56 turbofans, designated F108s in US military service, becoming KC-135R and KC-135T models. These upgrades improved fuel efficiency, reduced noise and increased the amount of fuel available for transfer. Successive avionics improvements also helped the aircraft adapt to changing operational requirements.
With a maximum fuel load of approximately 200,000 pounds, the Stratotanker primarily refuels receiving aircraft through a telescoping flying boom controlled by a boom operator. Depending on equipment, it can also support probe-equipped aircraft using a hose-and-drogue system. Its upper deck provides additional capacity for cargo and passengers, giving it a useful transport role alongside its primary tanker mission.
From the Vietnam War to operations in the Middle East and beyond, the KC-135 has enabled bombers, fighters and other aircraft to fly farther and remain airborne longer. After more than six decades of service, its continued usefulness reflects both the adaptability of its design and the extensive maintenance and modernisation programmes that have sustained it.
KC-135 Stratotanker Die-cut stickers
$6.81 USD
The KC-135 first flew on 31 August 1956, and the first operational aircraft was delivered to Castle Air Force Base, California, in June 1957. A total of 732 KC-135s were delivered to the USAF, with the last arriving in 1965. Although closely related in appearance and ancestry, the KC-135 was not a converted Boeing 707.
Originally powered by four Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engines, many aircraft were subsequently re-engined with CFM International CFM56 turbofans, designated F108s in US military service, becoming KC-135R and KC-135T models. These upgrades improved fuel efficiency, reduced noise and increased the amount of fuel available for transfer. Successive avionics improvements also helped the aircraft adapt to changing operational requirements.
With a maximum fuel load of approximately 200,000 pounds, the Stratotanker primarily refuels receiving aircraft through a telescoping flying boom controlled by a boom operator. Depending on equipment, it can also support probe-equipped aircraft using a hose-and-drogue system. Its upper deck provides additional capacity for cargo and passengers, giving it a useful transport role alongside its primary tanker mission.
From the Vietnam War to operations in the Middle East and beyond, the KC-135 has enabled bombers, fighters and other aircraft to fly farther and remain airborne longer. After more than six decades of service, its continued usefulness reflects both the adaptability of its design and the extensive maintenance and modernisation programmes that have sustained it.
Product Details
Product Details | Die-Cut Stickers
Bring your favourite aircraft along for the ride with our warbird-inspired die-cut stickers. Designed for laptops, drink bottles, notebooks, toolboxes and more, they’re an easy way to add aviation artwork to your everyday gear, indoors or out.
✈ Die-cut design, follows the shape of the artwork for a clean, distinctive finish
✈ Durable vinyl construction, provides a flexible sticker suited to everyday use
✈ Protective matte coating, gives the artwork a smooth, low-glare finish while adding protection against wear
✈ Water and weather resistant, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use with a rated durability of 5+ years
✈ Strong adhesive backing, helps keep the sticker securely in place on suitable surfaces
✈ Easy-peel backing, makes application quick and straightforward
✈ Available in 5 sizes:
- 2″ × 2″ (5.1 × 5.1 cm),
- 3″ × 3″ (7.6 × 7.6 cm),
- 4″ × 4″ (10.2 × 10.2 cm),
- 5″ × 5″ (12.7 × 12.7 cm),
- 6″ × 6″ (15.2 × 15.2 cm).
Note: Listed sizes are nominal print sizes. As each sticker is die-cut to suit the artwork, the finished dimensions may vary slightly depending on the shape and orientation of the design.
Production & Shipping
Manufacturing | Die-Cut Stickers
Production & Shipping times can be found here.
Made to Order
This product is made to order with production beginning once your order has been received. We are, therefore, not able to cancel or amend an order once it has been placed. This includes changes to the shipping address, size, design, or any other specifications. Please review your order details carefully before finalising your purchase.
By producing items on demand rather than in large quantities, we actively contribute to minimising overproduction and waste. We genuinely appreciate your mindful purchasing choices, which support this more sustainable approach. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Colour and Design Variations
Minor variations in colour and design placement may occur during production. As a result, some design elements may differ slightly in colour or position from it appears onscreen. For more details please see our FAQ page.
Fulfilment and Product Origin
This product is printed in and are shipped from the United States.
Blank product sourced from the United States.
Care Instructions
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Refunds & Returns
Our Returns & Refund Policy and Apparel Size Guarantees and can be found here.