Keeping refuel ready
(Left to right) Senior Airman James Michel and Tech. Sgt. Jason Burianek, 384th Air Refueling Squadron boom operators, use a KC-135 Stratotanker Boom Operator Weapon System Trainer to simulate in-flight refueling, June 5, 2013 at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. This technology is currently available at three Air Force bases, with additional systems scheduled to be installed throughout the Air Force this year. With an operating cost of roughly $700, the BOWST drastically cuts down costs compared to an eight hour tanker sortie at $49,000, while helping McConnell’s operators to focus on student qualification requirements, emergency procedures, and meet their global air refueling mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Staff Sgt. Jess Lockoski)