>>> First Airbus tanker for Australia in good progress
by Derek Yeo - SINGAPORE - 20 June 2006


WORK on the first Airbus A330 Multi-Role Transport Tanker – for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) – to install its in-flight refueling equipment is underway in Spain.

The tanker will feature a ventral refuelling boom in the rear fuselage and, a port and starboard wing fuel pod. An air-to-air refuelling capability helps air forces on long-range deployments to support peace-keeping and humanitarian missions. Such a capability saves time and more importantly, the need for logistic support at refuelling stops.

In its troop-ferrying role, the RAAF aircraft has 272 seats arranged in a unique business-economy class layout. It comes equipped with ample lower fuselage compartments, large enough to fit 88- by 108-inch pallets (Australian Mil-Std*) and airline standard LD-3 containers and baggage. This configuration more than meets RAAF’s stringent requirements on airlift missions.

On completion, the aircraft will join 33 Squadron at RAAF Amberley base near Brisbane. Eventually, the squadron will receive a full strength of five A-330 MRTTs.

Other A330 MRTT deals beckon. The United Kingdom has chosen the type for its Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft requirement. It has been entered in several international contests to replace old flight refuelling tankers of several air forces, including the United States Air Force.

Meanwhile, Airbus is preparing to showcase the type in Europe and farther afield.



*Note: Australian Military Standards



SOURCE: Airbus SAS