What is the KC-135? The first KC-135 took to the air in 1956. Built upon a modified Boeing 707 airframe it’s initial principal function was mid-air refueling. More than 400 KC-135s have been retrofitted with CFM engines and have an estimated offload capacity of 220,000 pounds of injectable liquid and semi-liquid cargo over a range of 1,500 miles. Although capable of higher altitudes the tankers normally operate at much lower altitudes below 33,000 ft. Why the KC-135? The KC-135 is the most commonly reported carrier and distributer. It’s very similar and often indistinguishable at a distance from other commercial passenger aircraft. Tracking this aircraft is the most productive use of available time and resources. Reports of other aircraft exhibiting similar behaviors have been reported. The network will keep pace with these developments and add planes to the spotter’s watch list as needed. How does the Ground Tracking Network work? The network’s main purpose is to record and monitor KC-135 activity through Cooperative Engagement. Members report their findings on the online forum. This way of working effectively replaces the cumbersome and now obsolete Central Operator and Citizens' Defense Corps. I’m a beginner. How do I get started? The Ground Tacking Network recommends following a 4-step process using the B.L.U.E. Sky method. First and most importantly you must BEGIN. Get involved and become an active observer. As you get out there and begin spotting, you may find you have to learn to really LOOK. Empty your mind of prejudices; learn to see what is actually there and then accept the information that presents itself. The mind will naturally resist what it perceives as impossible or unlikely. Try your best to fight against this and trust your senses. Doing so will lead to an UNDERSTANDing of why it’s important to be out there ‘under the trails’ recording and monitoring what you see. As this understanding develops you’ll require additional information to compliment what your eyes are telling you. Your membership gives you access to the forum where other members will point you towards the very latest developments and reading material. Participating brings the network closer to a full picture and finally EXPOSURE. How much will it cost? It’s free to join the KC-135 Ground Tracking Network. Equipment can be moderately priced to very expensive depending on what you’d like to be able to do. But any pair of binoculars will get you out there observing. I want to remain anonymous. Can I? Yes. But in order to receive your free ermbroidered patch you will have to provide a mailing address. PO boxes are acceptable. Why is there a forum? The forum is a place to discuss findings, opinions, and ask questions. The forum is divided into various and expanding topics such as: General Emerging Technologies Radio Monitoring Command & Control Sensors & Processing Sample Analysis Identification Black Line Phenomena Operational Patterns Global Operational Patterns Surveillance & Engagement Airplane Logo, Colors & Registration Biological and Cognitive Technology Microwave & Radar Military Misc. Weather & Climate Health & Related Illness Air Traffic Control Swarm Intelligence Is the forum moderated? Yes. The forum will be closely monitored and abusive or hostile entries will be removed and the offender banned. As a sky-monitor, won’t I be monitored in return? Spotting is a low-risk, high-reward endeavor. While some people will always be reluctant to get involved, fear or intimidation is something that can be overcome. My friends and family don’t understand and make fun of me. Does this happen to everyone? Ridicule is a common and predictable reaction. People generally like to avoid feeling uncomfortable and will often attack the messenger. Remember that you can’t always take everyone with you as a truth seeker. I don’t have a lot of spare time. How much time do I have to devote to my spotting? It’s understood that even if you adopt the B.L.U.E. Sky routine you will go at your own pace and work your way into this pursuit. Even the most accomplished spotters started out this way. Give what you can. Even the smallest input is valuable.