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The Air Force’s Aerial Refueling Fleet Is Shrinking in Capability

Monday, June 15, 2026
Photo of GAO Director Diana Maurer with her name and title "Director of Defense Capabilities and Management" and the Watchdog Report logo below it.

The Air Force’s Aerial Refueling Fleet Is Shrinking in Capability

During long flights or extended air combat missions, aerial refueling tankers can eliminate the need for military planes to land. Having this capability is vital for some missions, like rapid long-distance strikes or when landing to refuel isn't safe. The U.S. Air Force maintains the world's largest fleet of aerial refueling tankers. But even so, the condition of these planes and the Air Force's ability to maintain them may not meet the military's needs. We learn more from GAO’s Diana Maurer.