Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Wing receives four KC-135 Stratotankers to expand Arctic and global refueling reach

The 168th Wing, based in Alaska, is the United States’ only Arctic-focused air refueling unit. It previously operated a fleet of eight KC-135 aircraft supporting both operational missions and large-scale training exercises.

Col. Benjamin Doyle, commander of the 168th Wing, said the initiative strengthens operational readiness. “This Total Force Integration effort brings together the strength of active-duty and Air National Guard Airmen to form a mission-ready team,” he said.

“With these additional aircraft and soon an additional 200 Airmen, we are better positioned to deliver rapid, reliable air refueling—ensuring our forces remain lethal, responsive, and ready to operate anytime, anywhere,” Doyle added. The integration combines active-duty personnel with Air National Guard forces to enhance capability.

Doyle also emphasized the unit’s mission focus. “Our mission remains clear—protecting and defending our state and nation by delivering ready, capable Airmen and unmatched air refueling whenever and wherever it’s needed,” he said.

The KC-135 Stratotanker plays a central role in extending the operational range of military aircraft. It supports a wide range of missions by enabling sustained flight operations through in-air refueling.

The addition of four tankers increases sortie generation and operational flexibility. It also enhances the ability to sustain long-duration missions in remote and austere environments.

The 168th Wing operates in partnership with other Air Force units. These include the 354th Fighter Wing, which operates F-35 and F-16 aircraft, and F-22 units based in Alaska.

The expanded fleet strengthens support to combatant commanders. It enables rapid power projection and sustained presence in strategically important regions.

The initiative aligns with broader U.S. defense strategies focused on the Arctic and Indo-Pacific. These regions require high levels of mobility, endurance, and readiness.

Through Total Force Integration, the wing maximizes resources and interoperability. The approach enhances coordination between active-duty and reserve components.

The increased tanker presence at Eielson Air Force Base reinforces Alaska’s strategic role. It supports global mobility operations and rapid response capabilities.