Jan 6, 2026 11:31 AM
Updated Jan 6, 2026 11:37 AM
R-20 refueling is a next-gen hot-pit system that allows helicopters to stay powered during fueling, pumps up to 450 gallons per minute per hose, and draws from bulk bladders holding over 200,000 gallons.
A new next-gen refueling system aims to change how helicopters are replenished in the field, letting engines stay running while the aircraft takes on fuel.
US Airmen from the 332nd Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron recently put the R-20 system to the test during their first hot-pit operation in the US Central Command area.
A UH-60 Black Hawk successfully received fuel with its engines running, drawing from a bulk fuel bladder instead of the standard R-11 fuel truck.
Read the full story on NextGen Defense: Keep Engines On: US Air Force Debuts R-20 Hot-Pit Refueling Tech
US Air Force•US Army•UH-60 Black Hawk•United States•military•technology•US military•aerial refueling•UH-60 helicopter
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