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Rc 135 Collection

The RC-135, also known as the Rivet Joint aircraft, is a crucial asset in the United States Air Force's arsenal

Background imageRc 135 Collection: First Rivet Joint Aircraft Lands at RAF Waddington

First Rivet Joint Aircraft Lands at RAF Waddington
The UKs first Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft is pictured landing at RAF Waddington in November 2013. The first three Rivet Joint signals intelligence aircraft has been delivered to the UK ahead of

Background imageRc 135 Collection: United States Air Force Boeing WC-135B 61-2666

United States Air Force Boeing WC-135B 61-2666 (msn 18342) at McCleelan Air Force Base. Boeing C-135B-BN Stratolifter (Boeing 717-185)

Background imageRc 135 Collection: A U. S. Air Force RC-135V / W Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft

A U. S. Air Force RC-135V / W Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft
February 26, 2011 - A U.S. Air Force RC-135V/W Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft maneuvers away from a KC-135 Stratotanker after receiving fuel while flying over Afghanistan

Background imageRc 135 Collection: An E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) and a RC-135V / W

An E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) and a RC-135V / W
A US Air Force E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) and a RC-135V/W Rivet Joint aircraft sit in static display at the Royal International Air Tattoo

Background imageRc 135 Collection: An RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft flies over the Midwest

An RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft flies over the Midwest
An RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft flies high over the Midwest on a training mission out of Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska

Background imageRc 135 Collection: An RC-135 Rivet Joint Reconnaissance aircraft receives fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker

An RC-135 Rivet Joint Reconnaissance aircraft receives fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker
March 14, 2006 - An RC-135 Rivet Joint Reconnaissance aircraft moves into position behind a KC-135T/R Stratotanker for an aerial refueling over Southwest Asia

Background imageRc 135 Collection: An RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft moves into position to refuel

An RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft moves into position to refuel
An RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft moves into position behind a KC-135 Stratotanker for an aerial refueling at a speed greater than 250 knots over Southwest Asia

Background imageRc 135 Collection: A U. S. Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft

A U. S. Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft
March 14, 2006 - A U.S. Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft prepares for an aerial refueling over Kyrgyzstan



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The RC-135, also known as the Rivet Joint aircraft, is a crucial asset in the United States Air Force's arsenal. One such variant of this remarkable plane is the Boeing WC-135B 61-2666. Recently, history was made when the first Rivet Joint Aircraft landed at RAF Waddington, marking a significant milestone for both nations. With its advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology, the RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft has proven to be an invaluable tool for reconnaissance missions. Flying over various regions like the Midwest, it gathers vital intelligence that aids in national security efforts. In some instances, we witness other impressive aircraft accompanying the RC-135W on its missions. The E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) and another variant of the Rivet Joint aircraft - RC-135V/W - join forces to enhance surveillance operations. During these high-stakes flights over America's heartland, aerial refueling becomes essential for extended mission durations. In awe-inspiring displays of precision and coordination, KC-135 Stratotankers provide fuel to keep these powerful machines soaring through the skies. As each RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft moves into position to refuel or receives fuel mid-air from a tanker plane above vast landscapes or bustling cities below, their importance becomes evident. These planes are not just symbols of military might but rather guardians protecting our nation by gathering critical information. The dedication and expertise behind every flight ensure that our armed forces stay one step ahead in an ever-evolving world. The men and women who operate these magnificent birds deserve recognition for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding our freedom. So next time you catch sight of an RC-135W Rivet Joint flying overhead or hear about its groundbreaking achievements like landing at RAF Waddington or conducting successful surveillance missions across America's heartland – remember that it represents more than just an aircraft.