Air Refueling Operations in the North Pacific: Is There a More Efficient Method?
Abstract
The 1997 Air Force Long Range Plan states the Air Force will continue to rely on the Air Reserve Component (ARC) in an integrated Total Force. Driven by the desire to maximize efficiency and operational effectiveness within allocated resources, the Air Force will continue to look for new opportunities, to include examining ARC involvement in new mission areas and optimizing the reverse associate unit. The best location to attempt either a KC-135 reverse associate unit or a non-traditional Air National Guard KC-135 squadron might be in the North Pacific Theater. Both options would help reduce the operations tempo of KC-135 squadrons, might help with aircrew retention, and would increase the reliability and cost effectiveness of air refueling operations in the North Pacific. This paper performs a cost benefit analysis on several proposals to satisfy the air refueling requirements in the North Pacific in a more cost efficient manner than today's current operations. Results of this study reflect an overall cost savings and more efficient use of air refueling resources with an increase in the number of KC-135Rs assigned to or associated with the 168th Air Refueling Wing. This paper examined several basing options and the associated costs and benefits.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA354268
Entities
People
- Michael J. Rauenhorst
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology