MILDENHALL, United Kingdom – A significant movement of U.S. air assets was observed over the last several hours as at least three KC-135R Stratotankers departed RAF Mildenhall, signaling a strategic reinforcement of American presence in the Middle East.
According to flight tracking data and regional sources, the tankers are providing essential aerial refueling support for a squadron of F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters. The formation is reportedly en route to Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan.
The F-35A Lightning II aircraft have been identified as belonging to the Vermont Air National Guard’s 158th Fighter Wing. Using the callsigns “Tabor 41” through “Tabor 46,” this group of six stealth fighters arrived at RAF Lakenheath (neighboring Mildenhall) as a transit stop before pushing further east.
The three KC-135R Stratotankers (callsigns “Gold 81,” “Gold 82,” and “Gold 83”) provided the “Coronet” escort across the Atlantic and are now facilitating the final leg to Jordan.
As of today, February 11, 2026, this second wave of F-35s is expected to integrate with existing assets at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base within the next 24 to 48 hours.
