KC 135

70 years into its mission and the KC-135 is still a cornerstone of global aerial refueling. Field is grateful to be a partner in that heritage. We are dedicated to ensuring the Stratotanker remains mission-ready for the next generation.


Our past performance includes everything from Navigation Safety Modifications and Flight Data Recorder upgrades to total Circuit Breaker Panel replacements. Whether it’s prototype development or large-scale fleet integration, we are proud to support the KC-135’s enduring mission.

Field's expertise is defined by precision and innovation across numerous critical programs:

  • Advanced Integration: Field performed the prototype LAIRCM installation on KC-135R and KC-135T aircraft. This complex process utilized a specialized laser alignment procedure to ensure the precise installation of structural supports for the LAIRCM Generation 3 Pod.
  • Special Operations Support: We were sole-sourced by the KC-135 System Program Office to develop a carry-on UHF SATCOM system for 22 Special Operations aircraft
  • Comprehensive Sustainment: From reverse engineering boom wiring harnesses to heavy maintenance checks, we provide the deep-tier logistics necessary to keep the fleet flying.

Cast Study: Turkish Air Force KC-135 Block 45 modification, under a contract through the KC-135 Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program office.

Turkey is the second largest operator of the KC-135 Stratotanker next to the USAF. The Block 45 modification removes the legacy autopilot system, Flight Director System, engine analog gages, and radio altimeter and installs a Dual Autopilot and Flight Director System, new radio altimeter system, and new engine display. This effort included modifications to seven Turkish Air Force KC-135 Block 45 Aircraft. This contract period of performance was from January 29, 2021, to January 28, 2024. Work was completed in December of 2022.

Field had previously completed the prototype Block 45 modification on two United States Air Force (USAF) KC-135 aircraft and installed the modification on the first 15 Block 45 Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) aircraft.