According to the latest Air Force data, the service’s aerial refueling fleet of KC-135 and KC-10 aircraft flew almost 7,300 sorties in 2006, offloading fuel to nearly 40,000 aircraft. USAF also notes that coalition refueling aircraft—KC-135 and VC-10—flew about 700 sorties. The combined offload of fuel amounts to 4.5 billion gallons.
Expanded production of the B-21 bomber can be accomplished at Northrop Grumman's existing Palmdale, Calif., facilities, the Air Force said. It also said test aircraft will be so simular to the production version that early examples could be used in combat if called for.