What is the purpose of the In-Flight Refueling (IFR) probe?

• A. Signals to ground crew.
• B. To measure airspeed.
• C. Allows aircraft to take fuel from tanker in-flight.
• D. Deploys a rescue line.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is extending flight endurance by taking fuel mid-air. The IFR probe is the aircraft’s receiving end of the in-flight refueling system, designed to mate with the tanker’s drogue (or boom) so fuel can be pumped from the tanker to the receiver during flight. This connection and transfer let the aircraft stay airborne longer and reach distant targets without landing to refuel. It’s usually stowed when not in use to minimize drag. The probe isn’t used for signaling ground crews, isn’t a device for measuring airspeed, and doesn’t deploy a rescue line.