KC-135T Stratotanker Ace of Spades Die-Cast Model

This aircraft commemorates 100 years of the 116th ARS

Commemorating 100 years of the 116th Air Refueling Squadron, this flagship KC-135T Stratotanker was formerly used to refuel the legendary SR-71 Blackbird. Unveiled during a ceremony on February 2nd, 2024, aircraft 59-1471 features an impressive tailfin design with 116th ARS “Ace of Spades” insignia. Placed on a background of yellow and blue, colors that match the dagger in the playing card, the celebratory design is topped off with red and white stripes on the control surface. Placed on the aft fuselage, this KC-135T also features the original USAAC National Star insignia that was standard from 1919 to 1942. Built in the 1960s and later converted from KC-135A to KC-135Q specification, this special Stratotanker could carry the Blackbird’s JP-7 in isolation from its own JP-4 fuel. Though modernized to KC-135T specification with the addition of CFM-56 engines, it can still dispense two types of fuel from its separated fuel tank systems. 

Features:

• Authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details
• Detailed landing gear
• Display stand included
• Measures 8”l with a 7.75” wingspan at 1:200 scale
• Officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Specially made for use with the SR-71 Blackbird, the unique KC-135Q specification was introduced in the 1960s with two independent fuel delivery systems. Stored in the wings, standard JP-4 fuel supplied the Stratotanker’s engines, while the refueling probe dispensed the special JP-7 mixture from the internal fuselage tank. Delivered at negative 60 degrees Fahrenheit to the Blackbird, JP-7 was designed to burn at extreme temperatures and prevent catastrophic detonation at Mach-3. Refueling SR-71s several times throughout their flight, the Stratotanker was crucial for the Blackbird’s secretive missions, capable of refueling at speeds up to Mach 0.5 and altitudes over 30,000 ft. Built in the 1960s from KC-135As, just 56 KC-135Q variants were manufactured, with most of them later reconfigured to KC-135T specification with CFM-56 engines.