Mon, Jul 20, 2009
14 Airbus Tankers Are Planned For The RAF
The first Airbus A330 aircraft platform slated for the United
Kingdom's Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) program has
arrived ahead of schedule to begin its conversion into a Multi-Role
Tanker Transport (MRTT) at Airbus Military facilities in Madrid,
Spain.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) tanker uses the same basic airframe as
Northrop Grumman's KC-45, which is proposed for the U.S. Air
Force's tanker fleet modernization. EADS North America is a
principal subcontractor with responsibility for delivering the
KC-45 aircraft platform, which will be produced at a new aviation
center of excellence to be built in Mobile, Ala.
"This early delivery once again underscores EADS' ability to
provide the most capable platforms to meet the most demanding
aerial refueling and airlift requirements of military services
worldwide," said Ralph D. Crosby, Jr., EADS North America's
Chairman and CEO.
The United Kingdom's FSTA program involves the acquisition of 14
A330 MRTT-based tanker/transports for the RAF. With a service entry
planned for 2011, the new aircraft will progressively replace the
country's fleet of aging VC-10 and TriStar refueling aircraft.
In addition to its selection for the United Kingdom's tanker
requirement, the A330 MRTT has been chosen by the air forces of
Australia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Three A330 MRTTs currently are in the military certification or
conversion process for the Royal Australian Air Force. Australia is
acquiring five of the aircraft, which will extend the range and
endurance of its fighters with aerial refueling support, and
provide long-range airlift for transportation of troops and cargo.
The Royal Australian Air Force is to begin operational service in
2010 with the aircraft, which will be designated the KC-30
Tanker.
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