Fueling the Fight: Hot-Pit Refueling Sustains Combat Airpower at Osan

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Brignac and Airman 1st Class Benjamin Patterson attach a pantograph to an F-16 Fighting Falcon.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Michael Brignac, left, 35th Fighter Generation Squadron electrical and environmental specialist, and Airman 1st Class Benjamin Patterson, right, 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron petroleum, oils, and lubricants distribution operator, attach a pantograph to an F-16 Fighting Falcon during a hot-pit refueling operation at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Jan. 27, 2026. Fixed fuel hydrant systems and pantographs, Airmen refuel aircraft directly from base fuel storage, reducing delays and sustaining combat airpower. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Sarah Williams/U.S. Air Force)

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- On the flight line at Osan Air Base, minutes matter. As F-16 Fighting Falcons launch, land, and return to flight, the ability to refuel aircraft without shutting down engines has become a determining factor in sustaining combat power for the 7th Air Force’s Super Squadron test.

Osan Air Base