The RC-135 Cobra Ball, Combat Sent, and Rivet Joint aircraft are foundational intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, all developed from the Boeing C-135 Stratolifter airframe. Boeing, the manufacturer, was founded in 1916 and has a long history of military and civilian production. By the 1940s, Boeing was building a large number of B-17 and B-29 bombers, and in 1947, flew its first jet aircraft, the XB-47, which led to the successful B-52 bomber. The RC-135 lineage itself stems from the KC-135, demonstrating Boeing’s capacity for continually modifying and adapting core designs for specialized missions.
These highly modified aircraft are characterized by unique external antennae and advanced sensor arrays essential for their roles. Cobra Ball tracks ballistic missile flight tests, Combat Sent gathers electronic intelligence, and Rivet Joint performs real-time tactical surveillance. The complexity of these missions necessitates detailed, frequent maintenance.
Maintenance access is paramount across all key aircraft sections. Solutions like the Reach Deck Platform, Modular Stepover Platforms, Super Trestle Scaffold, and Cantilever Platforms provide ideal access for the Nose Section (including the radome and avionics), the Forward Fuselage (ECS and cabin access), and the Wing & Engine Pylon areas (fan, compressor, turbine, and fuel pumps). Furthermore, stands and platforms are utilized for methodical servicing around the Landing Gear (NLG and MLG), the Middle Fuselage, the AFT Fuselage (rear avionics and APU compartments), and the Tail Section (stabilizers and rudder). These height access products ensure that all critical areas are reachable for thorough inspection and servicing.
