U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan announced on Apr. 8 the arrival of four more KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft to Alaska, completing a decade-long effort to increase military refueling capacity in the state. The new tankers will join the Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Wing at Eielson Air Force Base and will be accompanied by an additional 200 Air Force personnel.
The expanded refueling fleet is intended to support ongoing active-duty operations and enhance national security amid increased activity near U.S. airspace. Sullivan said, “The arrival of four additional tankers and hundreds more military personnel marks another exciting chapter in the historic military build-up we’ve achieved in Alaska over the past decade, which has not only been good for our national security, but also for Alaska’s economy and hard-working families.” He added that these resources are crucial given “Russia and China’s increasingly aggressive incursions near our airspace and waters.” Sullivan also stated, “These Airmen and tankers will join Alaska’s more than 100 fifth-generation fighter aircraft—the most of any place on the planet—projecting power and securing America’s interests in the Arctic and North Pacific. I look forward to welcoming these brave Airmen and their families to our great state and seeing them become a part of the most patriotic and supportive communities anywhere in the country.”
After joining the Senate in 2015, Sullivan began advocating for greater aerial refueling assets as preparations were made for hosting over 100 fifth-generation fighters between Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson’s F-22s and Eielson’s incoming F-35As. His efforts included placing a hold on a key Pentagon confirmation until commitments were secured.
In March 2021, plans were announced by the Air Force to add four KC-135s at Eielson with an expected arrival during fiscal year 2023; however, delays postponed their deployment until now despite continued pressure from Sullivan through various channels.
Sullivan has supported Alaskans with federal issues such as service academy nominations according to his official website. He completed a three-decade career in the Marine Corps before retiring as a colonel according to his official website. In addition to representing Alaska in the U.S. Senate according to his official website, he serves on several committees including Armed Services, Veterans’ Affairs according to his official website, Commerce, Science & Transportation, Environment & Public Works; he previously served as Attorney General of Alaska focusing on residents’ rights according to his official website.
Looking ahead, officials expect that this increase in refueling capability will further strengthen both local communities through economic benefits as well as America’s defense posture.
