Comparing the Effectiveness of Two KC-10 Concepts of Operation - An Examination of Tanker/Airlift Support in a Fighter Deployment to Europe
Abstract
This thesis considers how the role of the tanker affects Closure Time in a fighter deployment scenario. Two KC-10 concepts of operation (or roles) were examined and compared for their effectiveness in deploying fighter squadrons from the CONUS to their forward bases. The concepts were: 1) Dual role--all KC-10s provided both airlift and air refueling (AR) on each mission. and 2) Distinct role--some KC-10s carried only cargo, while the other KC-10s were organized into Tanker Task Forces (TTFs) to provide only air refuelings. Closure Time (latest arrival of fighters and cargo at the destination) was selected as the appropriate measure of effectiveness and its minimization was the objective. It was assumed that only KC-10s would be used. This thesis provides a foundational tutorial, describing the KC-10 operations in the context of a fighter deployment. A deterministic calculation of the closure time was developed and then used to calculate the apportioning of Distinct Role Tankers among the TIFs. Graphic analysis was used to determine the apportioning of KC- 10s between the TTF and Airlifter-Only missions. The deterministic TTF model was computerized for calculating optimal KC-10 apportioning for any given set of fighter AR requirements. Using the deterministic equations, it was shown that the fastest fighter closure time occurs when the KC-10 is used in the distinct role concept of operation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA172954
Entities
People
- John D. Hunsuck Jr.
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology