The KC-135 only has a centreline boomso is not capable (BDA is a non-starter). The Tristar goes out of service about the same time as the VC-10, and, as it can still carry pax on the airbridge, can less easily be spared for the task.
As for the KC-330:
Second RAF FSTA Takes Off On Post-mod Test Flight
The second Future Strategic Transport Aircraft derivative of Airbus’s A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) for the UK Royal Air Force made its first post-modification test flight from Madrid yesterday (Oct 26).
Airbus Military says that the crew reported that the aircraft, its systems, and Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines performed entirely satisfactorily during the 2 hr flight from Getafe.
Meanwhile work is progressing on the installation of the Cobham-supplied fuselage refuelling unit (FRU) system on FSTA number one in Getafe, says Gabriel García Mesuro, Airbus head of flight operations and test.
“There was a delay in the delivery of the system from the supplier but we have now received it,” says Mesuro.
This aircraft performed around five flights prior to going into the workshop. Early next year will be used for refuelling qualification tests in the UK with various RAF aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon. Mesuro says the aircraft may also fly some refuelling trials with the Airbus Military A400M. Formal deliveries to the RAF are due to begin towards the end of 2011, says Airbus.
Meanwhile the first MRTTs for Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are due to make the first post-modification test flights from Getafe early next year.
Pictures: Airbus Prepares Next Two A400Ms in Seville
Video: A400M minimum unstick and rough-strip trials