[Jerry_M]

Not unreasonable that this was due to a refueling problem. Many heavy aircraft take-off with a limited amount of fuel so as to maximize ordinance. They refuel soon after take-off and possibly several times enroute during a mission. It is easier, and safer, with a full bomb load, to take-off with a limited amount of fuel and top-off as soon as reaching cruising altitude.

[woollyone]

What kinds of problems can develop in mid-air refeuling?