In 1969, military requirements resulted in a change in mission when the group was reassigned from MAC transport duties to Strategic Air Command (SAC). Under SAC the group became an air refueling unit, being equipped with the air refueling version of the C-97 transport, the KC-97. Familiarity with the aircraft led to a smooth transition from MAC to the new refueling mission. It supported the United States Air Forces in Europe flying aerial refueling missions in the KC-97 supporting missions of deploying aircraft to NATO for tactical exercises.