909th AMU crew chiefs keep Stratotankers in business Published May 2, 2023 By Senior Airman Yosselin Campos 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- In service for over 40 years, the KC-135 Stratotanker provides long-range aerial refueling support for the Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied aircraft, and has the capacity to offload 6,500 pounds of fuel per minute. The 909th Aircraft Maintenance Unit provides combat ready air refueling capabilities to support peacetime operations and all levels of conflict in the Indo-Pacific theater. Crew chiefs inspect, troubleshoot and repair aircraft structures, engines and hydraulic systems, which play a vital role in maintaining the KC-135s ability to remain combat ready.