61-2663 seen here at what was then Shemya AFB soon after its conversion from a VC-135B to an RC-135S "Cobra Ball" surveillance aircraft. At the time of upload this aircraft was still in USAF service. The array of antennas has changed greatly with the evolving technology. The engines too have changed from the Pratt and Whitney TF33 (JT8D) turbofans in the photo to more fuel efficient CFM International F108 (CFM56) high-bypass engines. Photo by Staff Sergeant James Walter (Snr).

The sole Rivet Ball surveillance aircraft. Operated from what was then known as Shemya Air Force Base in the Aleutians. Slid off runway at Shemya and went over a cliff on January 13, 1969. No fatalities but the aircraft was a write-off. Photo by Staff Sergeant James Walter (Snr)