BIG EARS AND THE BLACK-WINGED SNAKE: US AIR FORCE C-135 'FERRETS'

摘要

As these words are being read, a US Air Force RC-135 will be probing some dark corner of our uncertain world, gathering intelligence that is both vital to the safety of its homeland and, ultimately, the wider Western world. Combat Aircraft explores the clandestine realm of the USAF's 'ferrets'. REMARKABLY, FOR AN aircraft that has been quietly doing its job for the past 45 years, the Boeing RC-135 looks set to continue its mission well into the 21st century - and perhaps even as far out as 2040. While many aspects of this multi-faceted program remain obscure, enough is out there to form a reasonable picture of the aircraft and their fascinating roles.