Stratotankers, Airmen forward deploy to refuel and save millions

Published May 23, 2011
By Staff Sgt. R. Michael Longoria
9th Air and Space Expeditionary Task Force-Iraq Public Affairs

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- For the first time since Operation Iraqi Freedom started all the way up to the creation of Operation New Dawn, KC-135 Stratotankers have forward deployed to conduct air refueling operations.

The 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron Detachment 4 is carrying out its mission from a forward operating base in Iraq with only a handful of aircraft and crew members.

"Originally, it was done purely as a fuel savings initiative," said Lt. Col. Christopher Amrhein, 340th EARS commander. "Soon after we started, additional capabilities were realized."

By forward deploying, the tanker aircrews have reduced approximately three hours of flying time on each sortie and are saving about $2 million a month in fuel costs.

"Our on-station response time was reduced by up to 80 percent," said Maj. Gregory Huhmann, the detachment commander. "We can remain on station longer and offload more fuel. We don't have to fly as far to get there; thus we can provide more fuel to the fight."

The 340th EARS devised a plan to set up operations to support requirements of U.S. Air Forces Central.

After finding a location, the tankers worked with on-site agencies to turn an abandoned building and clamshell tent into a fully-functioning detachment including setting up power, secure communications and multiple other self-help projects.

"All of that was built and put together within a week," Colonel Amrhein said. "Once the detachment was up and running, it began conducting daily missions to support Operation New Dawn. The speed at which this program went from concept to fully operational is truly incredible."

As smooth as the process was, it had a couple of slight bumps along the road and required synchronization with various services.

"One of the (biggest) challenges was communications," Major Huhmann said. "Multiple service agencies had to get involved. We had to provide and hook up our equipment, but get approval through the Army and coordinate any issues with the Navy."

Relying on the expertise of others to figure out the best way to get the project done was one of the keys to its success.

"Watching everyone work together has been truly amazing," the colonel said. "I am extremely proud of the professionalism, ingenuity and mission focus of the men and women from Det. 4."