Video

Video by Master Sgt. Shawn Monk

Exercise GLOBAL THUNDER: 171st Air Refueling Wing

171st Air Refueling Wing

Oct. 26, 2014 | 4:14

The Pennsylvania Air National Guard’s 171st Air Refueling Wing located near Pittsburgh Pa. takes part in Exercise GLOBAL THUNDER 15 Oct. 26, 2014. As part of the exercise two KC-135 aircraft air crews speed out to their planes to prepare the aircraft for an air refueling mission within minutes of the sounding of an alarm. If the scenario were real the aircraft would then take off to provide fuel where directed. The exercise coordinates between other combatant commands, services and U.S. government agencies across the nation. Missile defense, cyber space, surveillance and reconnaissance and combating weapons of mass destruction are areas that are all exercised. The main emphasis is on nuclear command and control. (U.S. Air National Guard Video by Master Sgt. Shawn Monk / Released)