Join this USMC KC-130J Super Hercules aircrew as it refuels MV-22B Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft

The Osprey pilots line their probes up with the KC-130 baskets, than the tilt-rotor slightly increases its speed to move its probe into the paradrogue

Taken on Oct. 20, 2016 the cool photos in this article feature U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) MV-22B Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft assigned to Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) receiving fuel from a KC-130J Super Hercules of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352 during a mission in support of Weapons and Tactics Instructor course (WTI)1-17 at Yuma, Ariz..

As it can be seen in the pictures, in aerial refueling, the KC-130 extends hoses, which are housed in large pods under the plane’s wings. At the end of the hoses are paradrogue assemblies, which are commonly called “baskets.”

The Ospreys have refueling probes on their front of the aircraft. The pilots line their probes up with the KC-130 baskets, then the tilt-rotor slightly increases its speed to move its probe into the paradrogue.

The aerial refuel was part of WTI 1-17, a seven-week training event hosted by Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) cadre, which emphasizes operational integration of the six functions (Offensive Air Support, Anti-Aircraft Warfare, Assault Support, Control of Missiles and Aircraft, Aerial Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare) of Marine Corps aviation in support of a Marine Air Ground Task Force.

MAWTS-1 provides standardized advanced tactical training and certification of unit instructor qualifications to support Marine Aviation Training and Readiness and assists in developing and employing aviation weapons and tactics.

Photo credit: Lance Cpl. Danny Gonzalez / U.S. Marine Corps