The concept of launching drones from KC-135 tankers is being explored by the U.S. Air Force’s Air Mobility Command (AMC). According to General Mike Minihan, head of the AMC, these drones could serve as decoys, and remote sensors, help forces navigate to their destinations, explore new landing locations, and even assist in the rescue of downed pilots.
From now on, KC-135 tankers could also be used to drop drones, thus providing positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) data to those who do not have it. They could be used for combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions, which is particularly important in high-intensity conflicts where stealth aircraft often operate deep in very high-risk areas.
The AMC also tested a system using magnetic compasses to navigate in environments where GPS is denied. Indeed, due to jamming and tampering, having a fleet of drones that can provide alternative navigation data is invaluable. This is particularly important as China and Russia are actively developing capabilities to disrupt GPS systems.
Drones could also be used for electronic intelligence (ELINT) and intelligence-gathering missions.