Marine Corps Conducts Tactical Aerial Refueling Training in Japan

Strategic Insights -

Marine aircraft from the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing conducted tactical aerial refueling training at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan on November 29. The training involved two AV-8B Harriers from Marine Attack Squadron 214 and KC-130J Hercules cargo aircraft from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152. The exercise allowed the Harrier pilots to transfer over 6,000 pounds of fuel in mid-air, increasing their flight time by hours. The training aimed to provide pilots with an understanding of refueling different aircraft, highlighting the unique challenges associated with each type.

Key Takeaways:

  • The tactical aerial refueling training was conducted by Marines with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa, Japan.
  • Two AV-8B Harriers from Marine Attack Squadron 214 participated in the training, along with KC-130J Hercules cargo aircraft from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152.
  • The exercise involved the "probe-and-drogue" method of aerial refueling, where the KC-130J fed out an 80-foot hose with a nozzle equipped with flaps to catch the wind.
  • The Harrier pilots were able to transfer over 6,000 pounds of fuel in mid-air, increasing their flight time by hours, according to Cpl. Benjamin Lopez, a crew chief with VMGR-152.
  • The KC-130J is capable of refueling various aircraft, including the MV-22 Osprey, UH-60 Blackhawk, CH-53 Super Stallion, and the F/A-18D Hornet.
  • The aerial refueling training is essential for providing and maintaining air-to-ground and air-to-air support in combat operations, according to Capt. Derek K. Johnson, a KC-130J pilot with VMGR-152.
  • The training offered the opportunity to share best practices and learn from other aircraft, according to Lance Cpl. Christian A. Garza, a loadmaster with VMGR-152.
  • The exercise demonstrated the flexibility and capability of the KC-130J in aerial refueling, allowing pilots to continue training without losing valuable time.

Statistics:

  • Over 6,000 pounds of fuel were transferred in mid-air during the training.
  • The KC-130J has a capability range of refueling various aircraft, including MV-22 Osprey, UH-60 Blackhawk, CH-53 Super Stallion, and the F/A-18D Hornet.
  • The KC-130J feeds out an 80-foot hose with a nozzle equipped with flaps to catch the wind during the "probe-and-drogue" method of aerial refueling.

Sources:

  • U.S. Marine Corps Public Affairs Office (no date) - "Marines Conduct Tactical Aerial Refueling Training in Japan"
  • Lance Cpl. Kris Daberkoe, Marine Corps Bases Japan (Nov 29, 2022) - "Marines Conduct Tactical Aerial Refueling Training in Japan"