46th AIR REFUELING SQUADRON

The 46th Air Refueling Squadron (46th ARS) was an important component of the United States Air Force’s air mobility and refueling operations. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron was equipped with KC-135 Stratotankers, providing vital in-flight refueling support to strategic bombers and tactical aircraft, thereby extending their range and mission capabilities. The 46th ARS played a significant role in supporting U.S. and NATO operations, participating in numerous exercises and deployments throughout its service. The squadron was ultimately inactivated as part of post-Cold War force reductions, but its contributions remain a testament to the USAF’s global reach and operational flexibility.