There are no stupid questions...
If you want deep strike then you can refuel before or after coming back
You can get more weapons in the air (lower start weight) and then refuel when flying
You can fly longer (e.q. CAP loiter time)
With refueling you stress the aircraft less cause you can get more fuel and weight in the air etc etc
What you say is true in general
What is not clear where the heck the refuelling is going to take place. The refuellers would be clear target for Indian su-30 MKI