USAF Deploys Refueling Tankers to Europe
Report and photos by Steven Valinski
June 16, 2025 – On June 15, 2025, the United States deployed over 30 KC-135 Stratotanker and KC-46 Pegasus tankers to Europe. The swarm of tankers was spotted leaving from various military bases in the U.S. by many using ADS-B trackers around the world. ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast) is a surveillance technology where aircraft broadcast their position, velocity, and other data that allows air traffic controllers to track aircraft in real-time with greater accuracy than traditional radar. This feature can be toggled off so aircraft cannot be seen which is often the case with military aircraft movements.
The deployed tankers continued to transpond, leaving ADS-B activated while departing the U.S. signifying a desire for the aircraft to be seen by anyone with the ability to track ADS-B. These aircraft landed at airbases such as Morón in Spain, Ramstein in Germany, Aviano in Italy as well as bases/airports in the UK, Estonia and the Middle East. These tankers are critical for mid-air refueling of military aircraft and help extend their range during military operations.
Early speculation as to the reason for the deployment was to assist in the Atlantic Trident 25 exercise in Finland, but the sheer number of refueling aircraft was abnormal for a military exercise. More than likely, the U.S. is sending a message to Iran that the U.S. military is ready and prepared to assist Israel in its military action, Operation Lion Rise, against Iran in the case of escalation. The lack of a known deployment of fighter jets may be an indication the tankers may be used to support aircraft from Israel or other allied forces in the operation according to some military analysts. However, the USAF already has many assets deployed and stationed at bases throughout Europe. U.S. President Trump has indicated a preference for peace as long as Iran gives up its nuclear ambitions. According to recent reports Iran’s leadership is showing signs that its willing to resume talks, but the White House is looking for a firm, definitive commitment that its nuclear enrichment program will immediately end. As tensions rise in the Middle East, the situation is constantly developing.
Steven is from Long Island, New York and now resides in sunny Mesa, Arizona. Steven’s love for aviation began when he was a child with a fascination for WWII aircraft. This love of aviation was further fostered by his uncle, a long-time Trans World Airlines (TWA) employee who had a passion for all forms of aviation.
Steven’s interest in photography began when he was 16 years old when he received his first SLR camera, a Minolta XGA. It makes sense that eventually his passion for aviation and photography would merge into a love for aviation photography.
In addition to being the web designer, webmaster and chief editor of Aviation Photography Digest, Steven has been published in numerous magazines worldwide.
Steven has an M.S. from Boston University and uses Nikon photographic equipment.
Steven is a Nikon NPS member.
Steven can be reached at: [email protected]