The story
Built on the DC-10 widebody, the KC-10 Extender spent four decades as the Air Force's long-haul gas station, dragging fighters across oceans and hauling their cargo and crews at the same time. The last USAF KC-10 flew to the boneyard in September 2024, handing the job to the KC-46, though contractor Omega Aerial Refueling has put a few back to work.
A KC-10 carries up to 356,000 lb of fuel, nearly double a KC-135's load.
Quick answers
How do you identify a KC-10 Extender?
Three engines — one on the tail like a DC-10. Refueling boom under the rear.
What does a KC-10 Extender sound like?
Three big CF6 turbofans: a deep widebody rumble, with one engine buried in the tail where a DC-10 carries it.
How fast is the KC-10 Extender?
Top speed is 467 kts.
How far can the KC-10 Extender fly?
Range is about 3,820 nmi.
How big is the KC-10 Extender?
It is 181 ft 7 in long and 165 ft 4 in across the wings.
When did the KC-10 Extender first fly?
Its first flight was in 1980.
How many KC-10 Extenders have been built?
60 built.
What do crews call the KC-10 Extender?
Big Sexy.
How rare is a KC-10 Extender in Bogey?
RARE. A good day. Most spotters go weeks between sightings of something this rare. Your first KC-10 Extender catch is worth 250 points.
