Airbus says the A400M airlifter has successfully demonstrated its air-to-air refuelling capabilities. During a recent flight test campaign, a Spanish air force F/A-18 Hornet made 33 dry and 35 wet contacts with an A400M development aircraft. During the wet contacts 18.6 tonnes of fuel was transferred to the Hornet.
According to Airbus: “The standard A400M aircraft has full provisions for air-to-air Refuelling operations already installed as standard and only requires the rapid installation of the optional air-to-air refuelling kit to become a tanker.”
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Michael
says:I think this will prove to be an excellent aircraft but I wonder what its sales prospects will be once Airbus progress through the existing order book. Germany and Spain plan to put 26 airframes on the market between them once they take delivery. This must put Airbus in a tough position.
Is the acquisition of the A400m for the RAAF highly likely once the C-130Js start to head toward retirement sometime next decade?