Fairchild supports MAWTS-1 with aerial refueling

U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Ben Isley, a KC-135 Stratotanker pilot assigned to the 97th Air Refueling Squadron, flies a KC-135 during a U.S. Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet aerial refueling mission over Washington state, April 9, 2024. The mission was part of the Weapons and Tactics Instructor course hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One. MAWTS-1 provides unit instructors advanced tactical training and certification to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness. During the seven-week MAWTS-1 WTI course, experienced Marine Corps, joint, and ally military personnel learn to integrate all elements of the Marine-Air Ground Task Force. The aerial refueling allows the Marine Corps aircraft to stay airborne longer, ensuring the aircraft has the time to complete the advanced tactical training. Operations like the MAWTS aerial refueling training gives Joint Force experience to the KC-135 aircrew and the Marine Corps receiving aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Haiden Morris)