What procedure is used by the military to transfer fuel from one aircraft to another during flight?

Aerial refueling is the procedure used by military aircraft to transfer fuel from one aircraft to another while in flight. This process allows military planes to extend their operational range, enabling them to fly longer distances without needing to land for refueling. It is a crucial capability for many military operations, as it enhances the flexibility and endurance of aircraft during missions.

Aerial refueling typically involves a tanker aircraft equipped with specialized systems to dispense fuel, which is then received by another aircraft via a hose-and-drogue system or a flying boom. This method of refueling is vital for maintaining strategic air power and supporting various missions, including long-range bombing, reconnaissance, and air-to-air combat operations.

While in-flight refueling shares a similar meaning and could also refer to the process of refueling during flight, the term "aerial refueling" is the more widely recognized and accepted terminology used specifically in military contexts. This makes it the most appropriate term among the given choices.