Third KC-30 completed

A file image of the RAAF's first KC-30. (Airbus Military)

Airbus Military has completed its third RAAF KC-30A (A330 MRTT) tanker transport conversion, the second to be undertaken in Brisbane by Qantas Defence Services (QDS), with the aircraft recently completing its post conversion test flight.

After completing its four hour ‘production flight’ test flight, during which it reached an altitude of 41,000ft and various handling quality, performance and systems tests were undertaken, the aircraft is now due to fly to Spain later this week where it will be painted in RAAF colours and undergo refuelling tests.

Noted Airbus Military program manager Valentin Merino, “there have been significant improvements in the conversion quality and efficiencies since the commencement of the Australian program in 2008.”

The news follows the announcement earlier this month that the KC-30 has received Spanish military certification from the Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Aerospacial. Airbus Military says the first two KC-30s will be delivered to the RAAF “before the end of the year”.

Conversion work on the fourth KC-30 is now well advanced with QDS and Brisbane.