Inflight IF135USAF444
Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker Diecast Model
USAF 121st ARW OH ANG, #59-1444 Spirit of Rickenbacker, Battle Damaged | |
| 1:200 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker | | 8.25" | | 7.75" |
Boeing KC-135R Stratotanker serial number 59-1444 (c/n 17932), famously known as the "Spirit of Rickenbacker" with the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing, gained widespread attention in early 2026 after flying back to the U.S. covered in USAF KC-135R Stratotanker 59-1444 served with the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker ANGB. In March 2026, the veteran tanker deployed to Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, where it was apparently damaged by shrapnel during Iranian missile attacks that reportedly damaged several KC-135s. In April, 59-1444 was photographed at RAF Mildenhall covered with numerous temporary battle damage repair patches across its fuselage, wings, engines, and tail. It subsequently returned to the United States for depot-level repairs at Tinker AFB. The remarkable images demonstrated both the severity of the damage and rugged durability of the KC-135.
Designed as an in-flight refueling tanker for the United States Air Force, the KC-135 was first flown in August 1956. It has played a crucial role in extending the range and endurance of U.S. and allied aircraft. Its primary mission is to refuel other aircraft in-flight, enabling them to operate over longer distances without the need to land for refueling. The aircraft is based on the Boeing 707 and has a distinctive appearance with its swept wings and a flying boom for refueling operations. Beyond aerial refueling, the KC-135 can also transport cargo, perform medical evacuations, and support strategic airlift missions. © Copyright 2003-2026 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Inflight 200 range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of civilian and military transport aircraft.
Inflight 200 diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Permanently extended metal landing gear with rolling rubber tires.
© Copyright 2003-2026 The Flying Mule, Inc.
