Buddy store

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A buddy store is an external fuel tank loaded on a hardpoint on a military aircraft.

Unlike normal external fuel tanks on combat aircraft, buddy stores are equipped with a simplified hose and drogue system for in-flight refueling. A fighter / bomber equipped with a buddy store acts as a makeshift tanker for another aircraft, extending the range of its "buddy." This allows an air combat force without dedicated tanker support (for instance, a carrier air wing) to extend the strike range of its aircraft.