Toulouse, France: The Airbus A400M new-generation airlifter has successfully performed air-to-air refuelling tests. The tanker test campaign was developed in five flights in which the A400M performed 33 dry contacts and 35 wet contacts – where it dispensed 18.6 tonnes of fuel to an F/A-18 Hornet fighter.
The standard A400M aircraft has full provisions for Air-to-Air Refueling (AAR) operations already installed as standard and only requires the rapid installation of the optional air-to-air refueling kit to become a tanker. The A400M's basic fuel capacity of 50.8 tonnes can be increased by the use of extra cargo-hold tanks.
Designed from the outset to be a dual-role transport and tanker aircraft, the A400M provides air forces with a way to acquire an air-to-air refueling capability in addition to a logistic and tactical airlifter.
Source: Airbus Defense & Space
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