McDonnell Douglas KC-10 Extender Refueling Aircraft

 A rare view of the now-retired McDonnell-Douglas KC-10 Extender demonstrates its operational versatility in a low pass at the 2018 EAA AirVenture Fly-in. While primarily designed around the traditional, centrally mounted refueling boom positioned on the aft section of the fuselage, the KC-10 incorporated three “drogue chutes” – small receptacles compatible with the refueling systems of non-USAF aircraft.

Mounted to the end of retractable sections of hose, these drogue chutes trailed behind the refueler. Compatible aircraft would fly into position and “plug in” to the receptacle to take on additional fuel. The KC-10 was unique in that it could accommodate USAF aircraft via the large aerial boom while simultaneously refueling aircraft from other branches of the military, or even from other militaries. 

All 60 examples of the KC-10 were officially retired from service in 2024, but the crews that operated it fondly recall its unique capabilities, both as a refueler as well as a cargo aircraft.