U.S. Air Force Landren Dela Crus, 909th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, performs pre-flight inspections before takeoff at Kadena Air Base, Japan, May 29, 2025. Pre-flight inspections are necessary to ensure that both the aircraft and crew are in good working order, guaranteeing mission success. Boom operators receive years of extensive training to skillfully pump thousands of gallons of fuel into any capable aircraft, including joint-partner aircraft like the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon. (Staff Sgt. Gary Hilton, 18th Wing Public Affairs)
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- A U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon performs aerial refueling operations with a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan, over the Pacific Ocean, May 29, 2025. Aerial refueling capabilities extend airborne training time and combat radius, ensuring U.S. and allied nation aircraft are postured to maintain regional peace and stability within the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. The 909th ARS executes rapid deployment to support a multitude of Pacific Air Force missions, displaying Kadena’s commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
