The Chinese have not only mastered the art of aerial refueling (DR, 9/19/05), they are now buying eight Russian Il-78M tankers, as well as 30 IL-76 heavy transport aircraft. With the Il-78, Chinese fighters can reach Andersen AFB, Guam, according to the International Assessment and Strategy Center.
Air Force depots are not typically meant for quick repair jobs, but during Operation Epic Fury, the service moved some of its stateside heavy maintenance capability forward to fix battle-damaged aircraft closer to the fight.
