Air Force Pave Hawk Completes Aerial Refueling Training Over California

On October 5, 2024, an Air Force Pave Hawk helicopter participated in air-to-air refueling training with an HC-130J Combat King II aircraft over northern California. This critical exercise is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the operational readiness of aircrew and aircraft, ensuring that long-range missions can be supported without the need for landing to refuel.

Aerial refueling is a complex and vital capability for the U.S. Air Force, allowing extended flight operations for rescue missions, combat support, and humanitarian efforts. The training prepares aircrew to execute challenging refueling maneuvers in real-world scenarios, strengthening the Air Force’s ability to respond swiftly to global missions.