Photos Reveal Patchwork Repairs on Battle-Damaged KC-135 Returning to the U.S.

New photos show KC-135R 63-8028 with extensive bottom-rear battle-damage patches after Iran-war strikes, as the Alaska ANG tanker departs RAF Mildenhall for Bangor, Maine, en route to Tinker AFB. It’s the second damaged Stratotanker sighted at Mildenhall, with the earlier 59-1444 exhibiting more widespread damage. The fate of 63-8028 remains uncertain—possible repair-to-service or cannibalization for spares—highlighting the high demand for aerial refueling during Operation Epic Fury.