... the aircraft was completed in 1988, with a total of 746 C/KC-135 aircraft " most of them tankers " modified over a 13-year period. The work involved replacing about 1,500 square feet of aluminum of the underside of the wings, which carry most of the wing load in flight, with an improved aluminum alloy. The original wing surface consisted of a type ... joined. The bottom section of the old wing was cut away and replaced by the new sections. In addition to the skin panels, engine strut fitting also were replaced. Each unit required a total of 564 parts, 32,200 steel fasteners and 19,500 a...

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• Grade Level: High School