US KC-135 damaged over Iraq returns to service with new tail section

A Boeing KC-135 aerial refueling jet, identified as registration 63-8017, sustained significant damage in a mid-air collision over Iraq during March. The incident resulted in the shearing off of a stabiliser from a retired jet which was subsequently used for repairs. Extensive repairs were undertaken by the US Air Force following the serious damage. A vertical stabilizer from a retired jet replaced the damaged stabiliser. As a result of these extensive efforts, the KC-135 tanker has now returned to service with a new tail section.