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EC-135 “Looking Glass”

The Boeing EC-135 Looking Glass aircraft is a conversion of the basic C-135/KC-135 family of aircraft for the Strategic Command and Control mission. This airborne command post function provides a survivable means of command and control if SAC underground command center, alternate command posts or ground-based communications are lost. It also provides an alternate method to launch the Minuteman/Peacekeeper missiles if ground launch control centers are destroyed.  

Each airborne command post aircraft carries a battle staff and a variety of communications equipment. The SAC Airborne Command Post was on airborne alert around the clock from February 3, 1961, until July 24, 1990.  

The Air Force accepted our S/N 63-8049 on October 24, 1964.  

Specifications

Aircraft Type: C-135(EC), S/N 63-8049, Looking Glass, Boeing  

Mission: Airborne command post  

Number Built: The Air Force accepted a total of 820 C-135s. 732 KC-135As, 30 C-135As, 15 C-135Bs, 4 RC-135As, 17 KC-135Bs, 10 RC-135Bs, and 12 C-135Fs for the French Air Force.   

Powerplant: Four Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engines, 13,750 lbs. of thrust each, or four Pratt & Whitney TF33 turbofan engines, 18,000 pounds thrust each  

Weight: Empty 98,600 pounds, loaded 187,466 pounds, maximum takeoff weight 322,500 pounds  

Dimensions: Wingspan 130’10″, Length 134’6″, Height 38’4″  

Performance: Maximum speed 585 MPH, Cruising speed 530 MPH, Service Ceiling 36,900′  

Additional Exhibits