Thursday, October 6, 2016

RSAF Airbus A330 MRTT aerial refuelling tanker makes debut flight

Photo credit: Airbus Defence and Space

Full statement from Airbus Defence and Space on the first flight by the new standard Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), which the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has chosen to replace its KC-135R Stratotankers.

The event is of interest to us because the aircraft above is the first of six A330 MRTTs bound for the RSAF.

"Airbus Defence and Space has successfully completed the maiden flight of the first new standard A330 MRTT Multi Role Tanker Transport. This model incorporates a number of enhancements introduced on the basic A330 as well as upgraded military systems as part of Airbus and Airbus Defence and SpaceĆ¢€™s continuous product improvement programme. The three-hour flight took place on 30 September and the crew reported that the aircraft performed in line with expectations. The new standard A330 MRTT features structural modifications, aerodynamic improvements giving a fuel-burn reduction of up to 1%, upgraded avionics computers and enhanced military systems. First delivery is due in 2018. A total of 51 A330 MRTTs have been ordered by 10 nations of which 28 have been delivered."

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