The aerial refueling aircraft used in Operation Epic Fury were created from a single $16 million Boeing prototype. See the 'Dash 80.'

"As Boeing manufactured newer, faster jet bombers for the Air Force, mid-air refueling aircraft lagged behind. The standard refueling aircraft at the time, the propeller-powered KC-97, flew much slower than the jet-powered bombers it was meant to refuel. To Boeing president William Allen, it seemed like only a matter of time before a jet tanker became necessary."

"Development began in 1952. To keep the project under wraps and ensure they were the first to market, Boeing named the prototype the 367-80, nicknamed "Dash 80," to disguise it as a piston-powered aircraft from Boeing's 300 series. Sweeping the wings back 35 degrees resulted in a significant reduction in drag, allowing the plane to fly faster and carry heavier loads."

"Boeing demonstrated the Dash 80 for the first time on August 6, 1955, when airline executives were gathered in Seattle for the Gold Cup hydroplane races. Pilot Alvin M. "Tex" Johnston stunned onlookers - and Allen himself - when he performed two surprise 360-degree barrel rolls."

In the 1950s, Boeing president William Allen invested $16 million to develop the Boeing 367-80, nicknamed the Dash 80, a jet-powered prototype designed to demonstrate the viability of jet aircraft for both commercial and military applications. Development began in 1952, with the aircraft disguised under a misleading designation to maintain secrecy. The Dash 80 featured swept-back wings at 35 degrees, reducing drag and enabling faster speeds and heavier payload capacity. The prototype first flew in 1955, and during a demonstration for airline executives in Seattle, pilot Tex Johnston performed unexpected barrel rolls that shocked observers. This bold demonstration ultimately convinced the Air Force and commercial airlines of jet aircraft's potential, leading to the development of the Boeing 707 commercial jetliner and the KC-135 military tanker.

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