61-2666 retired?

[backtrack26]

I saw a Facebook post (Texomaspotter), that NC-135 61-2666 was apparently ferried to AMARG on tuesday 05/09, as SAME40. An aircraft with a rich history.
Based at KGVT, where it used to fly in and out as a testbed. SAME40 and SHINR40 were mostly used as callsigns.
This must be one of the last C-135s frame equipped with the "old" TF-33 engines?

Last visit to Mildenhall somewhere in 2018 ?

The same post mentioned that a "new" NC-135 will receive the sensors to continue the work.

[ranger one one]

1st May 18 as Same 40

[backtrack26]

1st May 18 as Same 40

Thank you for the confirmation

[Eagle130]

That’s heartbreaking news, I saw the track on ADSB last night heading to Davis Monthan (KDMA) and was a tad suspicious this might have been the last flight…

Any clues yet on what the replacement might be ? This airframe hasn’t flown for over a month if my log is right, so I would guess that’s enough time to remove all the kit onboard before final flight

[backtrack26]

That’s heartbreaking news, I saw the track on ADSB last night heading to Davis Monthan (KDMA) and was a tad suspicious this might have been the last flight…

Any clues yet on what the replacement might be ? This airframe hasn’t flown for over a month if my log is right, so I would guess that’s enough time to remove all the kit onboard before final flight

I noticed the flight yesterday as well on FR24. But with usual callsign (SAME40), I supposed it was another routine flight.
Yes, it was mentioned in the post on Facebook that all sensors and most antennas where already removed. No idea which airframe it successor will be.

[EGDR]

This must be one of the last C-135s frame equipped with the "old" TF-33 engines?

The very last in USAF service

[Eagle130]

Complete end of an era then!! Will have to see what comes in the next few months/ years as to what replaces 61-2666

[EGDR]

I think 62-4133 is the replacement?

[Eagle130]

Interesting, haven’t seen 62-4133 fly for quite a while so that would line up I think

[Eagle130]

Yep just looked back, the last move I’ve seen from 62-4133 was from Offutt AFB (KOFF) -> Greenville Majors Airport (KGVT) on the 14th of February 2023 so I would think that is a good estimate then!

[The Apprentice]

https://www.key.aero/article/usafs-big- ... st-nc-135w

[backtrack26]

Yep just looked back, the last move I’ve seen from 62-4133 was from Offutt AFB (KOFF) -> Greenville Majors Airport (KGVT) on the 14th of February 2023 so I would think that is a good estimate then!

Thanks for the info, makes sense indeed,