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This aircraft revolutionized air travel when it was introduced
into airline service in 1958. Although the British Comet entered
service years before that aircraft's problems allowed the
US manufacturers to catch up. The 707 was developed from the
Dash 80 demonstrator aircraft. Compared to the Dash 80 the
707 featured a wider, longer fuselage. The 707 saw extensive
airline service and larger number have also served in air
forces around the world. Basic 707s have been used in the
strategic transport and VIP roles. Many nations have had 707s
converted to fulfil the air to air tanker role. (The KC-135
is based directly on the Dash 80 and not a 707 derivative)
There have been other more roles which have required much
more extensive refits. The 707 is the basis for the E-3 Sentry
airborne early warning aircraft, the Israeli Phalcon AEW aircraft,
the E-8 Joint STARS ground surveillance system and the US
Navy's E-6 Mercury submarine communications and airborne command
post.
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