An unusually large group of 28 U.S. military aerial refueling aircraft was observed flying east across the Atlantic Ocean in recent hours, according to open-source flight tracking data.
The aircraft were not seen accompanying fighters or bombers, and no official statement has been issued regarding their destination or mission.
The coordinated movement of such a high number of refueling tankers has drawn attention due to its timing, which coincides with ongoing tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites.
As tracked by independent observers, the tankers appear to include variants of the KC-135 Stratotanker and the KC-46 Pegasus. Both aircraft are capable of in-flight refueling operations for a wide range of military platforms, including fighters, bombers, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) aircraft, and other tankers.
28 now. pic.twitter.com/STV6EWCt0q
— Evergreen Intel (@vcdgf555) June 16, 2025
No official confirmation has been provided as to whether the tankers are part of a scheduled rotation, a large-scale logistical repositioning, or in preparation for contingency operations. However, the volume of aircraft suggests a deliberate movement of U.S. aerial refueling capability.
Aerial refueling is a critical element of U.S. power projection, allowing combat aircraft to extend their range and duration without relying on ground-based support. The KC-135 can transfer up to 90,000 pounds of fuel, while the KC-46 can carry similar quantities with expanded communications and defensive systems.
In recent weeks, the United States has already deployed naval and air defense assets to the region, including AEGIS-equipped destroyers and THAAD missile defense systems, to support Israel and deter hostile action. The U.S. has also conducted air patrols and reinforced security at military installations in the region.
While no official link has been made between the tanker deployment and the current conflict between Israel and Iran, the movement comes amid heightened vigilance following missile and drone activity in the region.
Israel continues to carry out strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, while Iran has launched retaliatory attacks, including ballistic missile salvos.