On Thursday, the Republic of Korea Air Force’s (ROKAF) 1st Fighter Wing (1st FW) inspected the aviation fuel pipeline system with a U.S. Air Force detachment at the base to maintain and strengthen the fuel supply system.
The inspection focused on ensuring South Korea and the United States’ readiness for mutual aviation fuel support infrastructure. The process involved transferring fuel to U.S. Air Force tanks through the interconnected pipeline.
As the inspection began, personnel from both countries received a pre-operation briefing and opened the connecting valves linking their respective fuel tanks. At a rate of 500 gallons per minute, 50,000 gallons (approximately 190,000 liters) of aviation fuel were transferred. Throughout the process, personnel meticulously monitored the fuel flow rate and examined the detailed components of the pipeline. The inspection concluded successfully once the planned fuel volume had been fully transferred.
Rapid refueling is critical for supporting air operations during emergencies and ensuring sustained operational capability during wartime. This inspection was especially significant as it marked the first time the ROKAF 1st Fighter Wing delivered fuel to the U.S. side via pipeline, having previously transported fuel by vehicle.
Major Kang Dong Wook, commander of the Supply Battalion, stated, “I am proud to have completed the joint inspection of the ROK-U.S. interconnected pipeline. Building on today’s achievements, we will solidify the mutual aviation fuel support system and do our utmost to ensure flawless support for air operations.”
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