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News | Nov. 12, 2016

Fueling the 380 AEW, coalition partners

By By Tech. Sgt. Christopher Carwile 380 Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

The Fuels Management Flight of the 380th Expeditionary Logistics and Readiness Squadron replaced the first of four fuel bladders identified as unserviceable at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, November 9, 2016.

The Air Force’s primary mission to “Fly, Fight, and Win” is a goal that is mainly accomplished through aerial domination. This is a mission that absolutely cannot be completed without fuel support

“We support the largest fuel bladder farm in the AOR with a mix of 27 jet fuel bladders,” said TSgt James, 380th ELRS Fuels Management Flight.

Fuel bladders are constantly monitored for leaks, tears and seeps; once a problem is identified, they are either repaired or deemed unserviceable.

“When a bladder is identified as being unserviceable, we start an involved process of emptying it and breaking it down since there’s no other practical way to remove the bladder,” said James. “The easiest part is installing the new bladder.”

According to Senior Airman Walter, 380th ELRS/LGRF, the fuel bladders are used to fill the two primary supply tanks, but can also serve as the primary system when maintenance is conducted on the tanks.

“Our flight is responsible for maintaining and supplying fuel to the entire 380th AEW and our coalition partners that are here with us,” said Walter.

For security reasons, last names have been removed.


Editor's note: The original story can be viewed on the Air Forces Central Command website.