RAAF A330 MRTT progress
Thread Starter
RAAF A330 MRTT progress
EADS Completes Successfully 1st Flight Test phase A330 MRTT Aircraft
(Madrid, February 14, 2008) -- The first A330 MRTT prototype MSN747 has landed today at EADS MTAD facilities in Getafe, Madrid at 12:15h local time after completing Phase 1 of the flight testing that has been primarily devoted to civil certification. EADS MTAD has officially announced the conclusion of a key Australian A330 MRTT programme milestone.
Flight Test Phase 1 has been conducted in just 3 months logging up a total of 63 flights and 202 flight hours.
During this phase, the A330 MRTT has proven to be extremely reliable fulfilling the flight test programme in accordance to the flight test schedule. The A330 MRTT has behaved as expected, showing that the modifications introduced to the MRTT configuration (including refuelling pods and boom) had no significant effect on the aircraft's performance. The flight test programme has met all defined test objectives. The flight test campaign was oriented to analyze the behavior of the aircraft with regard to the following disciplines: anemometry & clinometry, handling qualities, buffet, flutter, loads, performance, flight controls (new tanker and receiver adapted control laws), new autopilot mode (bank angle) and the antenna re-location.
The results of loads, performance and handling qualities measured during flight test have shown full consistency with the data calculated by design. Also, it has been verified that the aircraft is Buffet-free and Flutter-free in the whole flight envelope until maximum design speed (MD/VD) after the military modification.
During this flight test phase, the full flight envelope has been validated and no limitations or restrictions have been found.
In addition to the above disciplines involved in the civil certification, the following military development tests have also been performed: Hose deployment and stability, proximity flights in receiver mode (A310 Boom demo acting as tanker) and proximity flights in tanker mode (F18 acting as receiver).
The flight control laws that have been successfully tested and will provide the aircraft superior handling qualities characteristics in the new roles of the aircraft as tanker and receiver. To enhance the capabilities of the aircraft an electronic tail bumper has also been incorporated to minimize the possibility of a tail-strike at take-off.
The Flight Test Phase 1 has been conducted at Getafe and Toulouse depending on the requirements of the flight test program, involving EADS MTAD and Airbus Flight Test organizations. In addition, the RAAF crew has also participated in some of the flight test activities.Additionally, the Phase 1 Flight Test Programme has also included formal certification flights with the participation of the civil European Authority (EASA).
The reliability of the modified A330 MRTT and its state-of-the-art flight test instrumentation has been outstanding: Not a single flight has been delayed or cancelled due to a technical failure. This is a good example of the excellent capabilities this aircraft will provide to the RAAF.
Source : EADS
(Madrid, February 14, 2008) -- The first A330 MRTT prototype MSN747 has landed today at EADS MTAD facilities in Getafe, Madrid at 12:15h local time after completing Phase 1 of the flight testing that has been primarily devoted to civil certification. EADS MTAD has officially announced the conclusion of a key Australian A330 MRTT programme milestone.
Flight Test Phase 1 has been conducted in just 3 months logging up a total of 63 flights and 202 flight hours.
During this phase, the A330 MRTT has proven to be extremely reliable fulfilling the flight test programme in accordance to the flight test schedule. The A330 MRTT has behaved as expected, showing that the modifications introduced to the MRTT configuration (including refuelling pods and boom) had no significant effect on the aircraft's performance. The flight test programme has met all defined test objectives. The flight test campaign was oriented to analyze the behavior of the aircraft with regard to the following disciplines: anemometry & clinometry, handling qualities, buffet, flutter, loads, performance, flight controls (new tanker and receiver adapted control laws), new autopilot mode (bank angle) and the antenna re-location.
The results of loads, performance and handling qualities measured during flight test have shown full consistency with the data calculated by design. Also, it has been verified that the aircraft is Buffet-free and Flutter-free in the whole flight envelope until maximum design speed (MD/VD) after the military modification.
During this flight test phase, the full flight envelope has been validated and no limitations or restrictions have been found.
In addition to the above disciplines involved in the civil certification, the following military development tests have also been performed: Hose deployment and stability, proximity flights in receiver mode (A310 Boom demo acting as tanker) and proximity flights in tanker mode (F18 acting as receiver).
The flight control laws that have been successfully tested and will provide the aircraft superior handling qualities characteristics in the new roles of the aircraft as tanker and receiver. To enhance the capabilities of the aircraft an electronic tail bumper has also been incorporated to minimize the possibility of a tail-strike at take-off.
The Flight Test Phase 1 has been conducted at Getafe and Toulouse depending on the requirements of the flight test program, involving EADS MTAD and Airbus Flight Test organizations. In addition, the RAAF crew has also participated in some of the flight test activities.Additionally, the Phase 1 Flight Test Programme has also included formal certification flights with the participation of the civil European Authority (EASA).
The reliability of the modified A330 MRTT and its state-of-the-art flight test instrumentation has been outstanding: Not a single flight has been delayed or cancelled due to a technical failure. This is a good example of the excellent capabilities this aircraft will provide to the RAAF.
Source : EADS
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Europe
Posts: 1,841
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Looks like things are on track 
Good job. On that note, anyone know when 33sqn are making the journey up to Amberley? The first aircraft is suppose to arrive in Amberley not Richmond, yeh?
Good job. On that note, anyone know when 33sqn are making the journey up to Amberley? The first aircraft is suppose to arrive in Amberley not Richmond, yeh?
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Australia
Age: 53
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
ahhhhh....the source is EADS........what did you expect them to say...........would be good to hear from the RAAF guys involved there, but I don't think that's going to happen.
I seriously doubt everything's on track.
I seriously doubt everything's on track.
Join Date: Jun 2001
Posts: 1,451
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Good to hear that at least one major DoD procurement is proceeding according to plan
...and a press release from EADS saying all's going well does not constitute "seeing it".
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: bush
Age: 48
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Sydney
Age: 55
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
33 Squadron move to Amberley
I understand that there is already a detachment in the new Amberley headquarters, to 'take possession' of the building and commence working on SOPs. More people will follow on 1 July this year, when the 'new' 33 Squadron officially commences operating from Amberley. Others will slowly fill up the unit strength over the next 1 to 2 years as training courses are run for the various trades and aircrew categories to meet scheduled aircraft deliveries.
Others will remain in Richmond to dispose of the aircraft, parts, hangar and HQ building.
Others will remain in Richmond to dispose of the aircraft, parts, hangar and HQ building.
Thread Starter
USAF Selects NGC to Provide the New KC-45A Aerial Refueling Tanker
USAF Selects NGC to Provide the New KC-45A Aerial Refueling Tanker
(Los Angeles, February 29, 2008) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) announced today that it has been selected by the U.S. Air Force to provide the KC-45A aerial refueling tanker for the KC-135 tanker replacement program. The Air Force's KC-45A is based on the highly-successful A330 commercial airframe, produced by EADS.
"We are excited to partner with the Air Force for their number one acquisition priority, the KC-45A Tanker," said Ronald D. Sugar, Northrop Grumman chairman and chief executive officer. "Northrop Grumman's vast expertise in aerospace design, development and systems integration will ensure our nation's warfighters receive the most capable and versatile tanker ever built. The Northrop Grumman KC-45A tanker will be a game changer."
The initial KC-45A contract provides four System Design and Development aircraft and is valued at $1.5 billion. The first KC-45A airframe completed its first flight on Sept. 25, 2007 and will now begin military conversion to the tanker configuration. The KC-45A's Aerial Refueling Boom System is currently in flight test and has successfully performed numerous in-flight contacts with receiver aircraft.
"Clearly the U.S. Air Force conducted a thorough and transparent competition in choosing their new tanker, which resulted in selection of the aircraft that best meets their current and future requirements," said Gary Ervin, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman's Integrated Systems sector. "By selecting the most capable and modern aircraft, the Air Force has embraced a system that provides a best-value solution to our armed forces and our nation."
Source : Northrop Grumman Corporation
EADS to Expand in US After Winning KC-30 Tanker Deal
EADS to expand its U.S. industrial presence following selection of Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker
- Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker aircraft selected by U.S. Air Force is based on A330 MRTT
- EADS and Airbus have begun work on U.S. facilities to support tanker programme
(Amsterdam, February 29, 2008) -- Selection of the Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker by the U.S. Air Force, a system based on EADS' A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) and designated by the USAF as the KC-45A, will significantly increase EADS' industrial presence and commitment in the United States, as well as its role as a U.S.-based defence and homeland security provider.
EADS North America is the partner to Northrop Grumman on the new tanker, with responsibility for assembling airframes and providing completed flight-qualified aircraft and refuelling sub-systems.
The KC-45A Tanker is based on the EADS A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport). Its airframe is derived from the popular A330 jetliner produced by EADS' Airbus Division, of which more than 880 have been ordered worldwide in passenger and freighter configurations. The Military Transport Aircraft Division (MTAD) is responsible within the EADS Group for all military derivative programmes based on Airbus platforms, including tankers.
This latest success in a series of competitions worldwide confirms the EADS-based military tanker as the best solution available on the market. Following its purchase by the Royal Australian Air Force, the MRTT solution has been officially ordered by the Royal Saudi Air Force and the UAE Air Force, as well as selected by the Royal Air Force of the UK.
Selection of the KC-45A Tanker was announced today by the U.S. Air Force, culminating a multi-year evaluation. The programme award calls for 179 aircraft with an estimated contract value of US$ 40 billion. The initial KC-45A contract for Northrop Grumman covers four System Design and Development aircraft and is valued at US$ 1.5 billion.
Louis Gallois, CEO of EADS, stated: "We have committed our energies to this important U.S. Air Force programme and to our team mate Northrop Grumman. Selecting a tanker based on the A330 MRTT will provide the U.S. Air Force with the most modern and capable tanker aircraft available today."
He added: "This major selection is a win-win for our customers, for allied industrial cooperation and for EADS. It signals a quantum leap forward in our commitment to the U.S. defence customer, reflects and supports our global strategy to increase EADS' industrial presence in key markets and our goal to balance the company's defence and commercial portfolios."
Tom Enders, President and CEO of Airbus said: "Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force can count on the full resources of Airbus to support the KC-45A tanker's production and delivery. All four System Design and Development aircraft are already in production. Preparatory work is now underway for our commitment to co-locate the final assembly of the tankers and A330 civilian freighter aircraft at Mobile, Alabama, creating the first new large commercial aircraft assembly facility in the U.S. in over 40 years."
Carlos Suarez, Chairman of EADS CASA and Head of Military Transport Aircraft Division stated: "This selection is a monumental achievement and firmly establishes the A330 MRTT as the state-of-the-art air refuelling system. The A330 MRTT platform now has won five consecutive global competitions and is clearly the standard for new-generation tankers worldwide."
"We are proud that the U.S. Air Force chose the Northrop Grumman/EADS team to modernize its aerial refuelling fleet," said EADS North America Chairman and CEO Ralph D. Crosby, Jr. "EADS has committed our full resources to support this vital programme for our prime contractor, Northrop Grumman, the U.S. Air Force and the warfighters that this system will serve for decades to come. We already have begun the work necessary to expand our U.S. industrial footprint in support of this important programme."
EADS has made major investments in the KC-45A Tanker, as well as its international tanker programmes, spending more than US$ 100 million to develop the aircraft's advanced Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS), while also building the first airframe - which made its maiden flight last September, and will now begin military conversion to the full aerial cargo configuration.
Production of KC-45A airframes will be performed at Airbus' new Mobile, Alabama aerospace centre of excellence which houses the Airbus KC-45A final assembly facility. In addition the final assembly of Airbus A330 civilian freighters will be performed there, providing a robust final assembly line to ensure low risk, high efficiency and increased capacity for both the U.S. Air Force and commercial Airbus customers.
Source : EADS
Boeing Statement on USAF Aerial Refueling Tanker Decision
(St. Louis, February 29, 2008) -- We were just informed that our KC-767 Advanced Tanker proposal was not selected in the KC-135 Replacement Program known as KC-X.
Obviously we are very disappointed with this outcome. We believe that we offered the Air Force the best value and lowest risk tanker for its mission. Our next step is to request and receive a debrief from the Air Force. Once we have reviewed the details behind the award, we will make a decision concerning our possible options, keeping in mind at all times the impact to the warfighter and our nation.
The Boeing Company would like to thank the many people who helped us in this campaign. We have received tremendous support from our suppliers, elected federal/state/local leaders, unions, community groups, and the 160,738 men and women who work for Boeing.
Source : Boeing
The political ramifications behind this decision could be huge. There will be shock waves in Washington because the Defence Department has gone against the wishes of the politicians from states where Boeing have plants. I cannot recall the US military ever making a major defence procurement offshore before this. I suspect that Boeing burnt themselves during the first tanker procurement process when they tendered a hugely inflated price (thinking that it was a "done deal"). The Defence Department have now sent a signal to all their other suppliers that gouging will not be tolerated.
(Los Angeles, February 29, 2008) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) announced today that it has been selected by the U.S. Air Force to provide the KC-45A aerial refueling tanker for the KC-135 tanker replacement program. The Air Force's KC-45A is based on the highly-successful A330 commercial airframe, produced by EADS.
"We are excited to partner with the Air Force for their number one acquisition priority, the KC-45A Tanker," said Ronald D. Sugar, Northrop Grumman chairman and chief executive officer. "Northrop Grumman's vast expertise in aerospace design, development and systems integration will ensure our nation's warfighters receive the most capable and versatile tanker ever built. The Northrop Grumman KC-45A tanker will be a game changer."
The initial KC-45A contract provides four System Design and Development aircraft and is valued at $1.5 billion. The first KC-45A airframe completed its first flight on Sept. 25, 2007 and will now begin military conversion to the tanker configuration. The KC-45A's Aerial Refueling Boom System is currently in flight test and has successfully performed numerous in-flight contacts with receiver aircraft.
"Clearly the U.S. Air Force conducted a thorough and transparent competition in choosing their new tanker, which resulted in selection of the aircraft that best meets their current and future requirements," said Gary Ervin, corporate vice president and president of Northrop Grumman's Integrated Systems sector. "By selecting the most capable and modern aircraft, the Air Force has embraced a system that provides a best-value solution to our armed forces and our nation."
Source : Northrop Grumman Corporation
EADS to Expand in US After Winning KC-30 Tanker Deal
EADS to expand its U.S. industrial presence following selection of Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker
- Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker aircraft selected by U.S. Air Force is based on A330 MRTT
- EADS and Airbus have begun work on U.S. facilities to support tanker programme
(Amsterdam, February 29, 2008) -- Selection of the Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker by the U.S. Air Force, a system based on EADS' A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) and designated by the USAF as the KC-45A, will significantly increase EADS' industrial presence and commitment in the United States, as well as its role as a U.S.-based defence and homeland security provider.
EADS North America is the partner to Northrop Grumman on the new tanker, with responsibility for assembling airframes and providing completed flight-qualified aircraft and refuelling sub-systems.
The KC-45A Tanker is based on the EADS A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport). Its airframe is derived from the popular A330 jetliner produced by EADS' Airbus Division, of which more than 880 have been ordered worldwide in passenger and freighter configurations. The Military Transport Aircraft Division (MTAD) is responsible within the EADS Group for all military derivative programmes based on Airbus platforms, including tankers.
This latest success in a series of competitions worldwide confirms the EADS-based military tanker as the best solution available on the market. Following its purchase by the Royal Australian Air Force, the MRTT solution has been officially ordered by the Royal Saudi Air Force and the UAE Air Force, as well as selected by the Royal Air Force of the UK.
Selection of the KC-45A Tanker was announced today by the U.S. Air Force, culminating a multi-year evaluation. The programme award calls for 179 aircraft with an estimated contract value of US$ 40 billion. The initial KC-45A contract for Northrop Grumman covers four System Design and Development aircraft and is valued at US$ 1.5 billion.
Louis Gallois, CEO of EADS, stated: "We have committed our energies to this important U.S. Air Force programme and to our team mate Northrop Grumman. Selecting a tanker based on the A330 MRTT will provide the U.S. Air Force with the most modern and capable tanker aircraft available today."
He added: "This major selection is a win-win for our customers, for allied industrial cooperation and for EADS. It signals a quantum leap forward in our commitment to the U.S. defence customer, reflects and supports our global strategy to increase EADS' industrial presence in key markets and our goal to balance the company's defence and commercial portfolios."
Tom Enders, President and CEO of Airbus said: "Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force can count on the full resources of Airbus to support the KC-45A tanker's production and delivery. All four System Design and Development aircraft are already in production. Preparatory work is now underway for our commitment to co-locate the final assembly of the tankers and A330 civilian freighter aircraft at Mobile, Alabama, creating the first new large commercial aircraft assembly facility in the U.S. in over 40 years."
Carlos Suarez, Chairman of EADS CASA and Head of Military Transport Aircraft Division stated: "This selection is a monumental achievement and firmly establishes the A330 MRTT as the state-of-the-art air refuelling system. The A330 MRTT platform now has won five consecutive global competitions and is clearly the standard for new-generation tankers worldwide."
"We are proud that the U.S. Air Force chose the Northrop Grumman/EADS team to modernize its aerial refuelling fleet," said EADS North America Chairman and CEO Ralph D. Crosby, Jr. "EADS has committed our full resources to support this vital programme for our prime contractor, Northrop Grumman, the U.S. Air Force and the warfighters that this system will serve for decades to come. We already have begun the work necessary to expand our U.S. industrial footprint in support of this important programme."
EADS has made major investments in the KC-45A Tanker, as well as its international tanker programmes, spending more than US$ 100 million to develop the aircraft's advanced Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS), while also building the first airframe - which made its maiden flight last September, and will now begin military conversion to the full aerial cargo configuration.
Production of KC-45A airframes will be performed at Airbus' new Mobile, Alabama aerospace centre of excellence which houses the Airbus KC-45A final assembly facility. In addition the final assembly of Airbus A330 civilian freighters will be performed there, providing a robust final assembly line to ensure low risk, high efficiency and increased capacity for both the U.S. Air Force and commercial Airbus customers.
Source : EADS
Boeing Statement on USAF Aerial Refueling Tanker Decision
(St. Louis, February 29, 2008) -- We were just informed that our KC-767 Advanced Tanker proposal was not selected in the KC-135 Replacement Program known as KC-X.
Obviously we are very disappointed with this outcome. We believe that we offered the Air Force the best value and lowest risk tanker for its mission. Our next step is to request and receive a debrief from the Air Force. Once we have reviewed the details behind the award, we will make a decision concerning our possible options, keeping in mind at all times the impact to the warfighter and our nation.
The Boeing Company would like to thank the many people who helped us in this campaign. We have received tremendous support from our suppliers, elected federal/state/local leaders, unions, community groups, and the 160,738 men and women who work for Boeing.
Source : Boeing
The political ramifications behind this decision could be huge. There will be shock waves in Washington because the Defence Department has gone against the wishes of the politicians from states where Boeing have plants. I cannot recall the US military ever making a major defence procurement offshore before this. I suspect that Boeing burnt themselves during the first tanker procurement process when they tendered a hugely inflated price (thinking that it was a "done deal"). The Defence Department have now sent a signal to all their other suppliers that gouging will not be tolerated.
Last edited by Going Boeing; 3rd Mar 2008 at 22:39.
Evertonian
keeping in mind at all times the impact to the warfighter and our nation.
Thread Starter
USAF Announces Tanker Contract
(Washington, February 29, 2008) -- Secretary of the Air Force, Michael W. Wynne, and Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Gen. Duncan J. McNabb, announced the selection of Northrop Grumman Corporation, headquartered in Los Angeles, Calif., as the winner of the KC-X competition for development and procurement of up to 179 tanker aircraft for approximately $35 billion.
The initial contract for the newly-named KC-45 is for the system design and development of four test aircraft for $1.5 billion. This contract also includes five production options targeted for 64 aircraft at $10.6 billion.
"The tanker is our number one procurement priority right now. Buying the new KC-45A is a major step forward and another demonstration of our commitment to recapitalizing our Eisenhower-era inventory of these critical national assets. Today is not just important for the Air Force, however. It's important for the entire Joint military team, and important for our coalition partners as well. The KC-45A will revolutionize our ability to employ tankers and will ensure the Air Force's future ability to provide our nation with truly Global Vigilance, Reach, and Power," said General McNabb.
"It is the first step in our critical commitment to recapitalize our aging fleet to move, supply, and position assets anywhere. In this global Air Force business, the critical element for air bridge, global Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, and global strike is the tanker," said General McNabb.
The KC-45A will provide significantly greater air refueling capabilities than the current fleet of Eisenhower-era KC-135s it will begin replacing. For example, it will be able to refuel Air Force and Navy aircraft on every flight. These aircraft have different systems for receiving fuel and today the KC-135s must be set up for one or the other before takeoff. The KC-45A will be equipped for both systems on every flight and will also have connections for wing pods. When wing pods are installed, it can refuel two probe-equipped aircraft, such as Navy and many allied aircraft, at the same time. It can even be refueled in flight by other tankers.
The KC-45A will also have defensive systems that allow it to go into dangerous environments that are currently avoided. It will also supplement our airlift fleet by carrying cargo, passengers, and medical patients in a secondary role.
The KC-X source selection used a "best value" determination to select a winner based on five factors: Mission Capability, Proposal Risk, Past Performance, Cost/Price, and an Integrated Fleet Air Refueling Assessment (performance in a simulated war scenario). These five factors were developed after consulting with industry and were finalized prior to starting the competition. Considered together, these grading criteria ensured the Air Force maximized the capability delivered to the warfighter while optimizing the taxpayers' investment.
The Air Force followed a carefully structured process, designed to provide transparency, maintain integrity and promote fair competition. The Air Force met with offerors on numerous occasions to gain a thorough understanding of their proposals and provide feedback on their strengths and weaknesses. The Air Force also provided insight into government cost estimates throughout the process instead of waiting until the post-decision debrief. The competitors indicated they were pleased with the degree of communication.
The evaluation team was comprised of experts covering a broad spectrum of specialties from acquisition to operations and was hand-picked from across the Air Force and other government agencies.
As part of the process, the Air Force will now provide a written notice to both the selected and not-selected and offer to provide a debrief on their bid proposals. To maintain the integrity of that process, the Air Force will be unable to provide additional information about the proposals and contract.
"Today's announcement is the culmination of years of tireless work and attention to detail by our Acquisition professionals and source selection team, who have been committed to maintaining integrity, providing transparency, and promoting a fair competition for this critical aircraft program," said Secretary Wynne. "Through these efforts, we believe we will provide a higher-value resource to the warfighter and the taxpayer."
Source : US Air Force
GE's CF6 Engines To Power USAF Tanker Replacement Program
(Cincinnati, OH., March 3, 2008) -- General Electric Company CF6 engines will power the Northrop Grumman KC-45A aircraft, which was selected Friday by the United States Air Force (USAF) for its tanker replacement program.
The USAF KC-X program calls for 179 tankers, and is the first of three phases to begin replacing the USAF tanker fleet. Including engines, thrust reversers, the flight management system, and services, the approximate value to GE is more than $5 billion (USD) over the life of the program. Initial production engines are scheduled to be delivered in 2010.
"We are extremely pleased to support the Air Force in its number one acquisition priority, and we look forward to delivering a breadth of capability throughout the life of this program," said Scott Donnelly, president and chief executive officer of GE Aviation.
Northrop Grumman Corporation selected the GE CF6-80E1 engine, which has accumulated almost four million flight-hours in commercial operation on the Airbus A330 aircraft, on which the KC-45A is based. The KC-45A will benefit from a Tech CF6 program, launched in 2007 to incorporate advanced technology into the engine's high-pressure turbine area. New technologies include high-pressure turbine airfoil cooling advancements that will enhance operational reliability, lower maintenance costs and improve fuel burn retention.
The KC-45A Tanker carries 45,000 more pounds of fuel than current tanker aircraft, providing a significant boost to the USAF's global reach. It is also designed to refuel Navy and coalition aircraft, and to serve as a multi-role transport aircraft to move passengers, cargo and medical evacuation patients. The CF6 engine family is in service with more than 250 customers worldwide, including Australia and Saudi tankers, almost 7,000 engines delivered to date.
Source : General Electric
The initial contract for the newly-named KC-45 is for the system design and development of four test aircraft for $1.5 billion. This contract also includes five production options targeted for 64 aircraft at $10.6 billion.
"The tanker is our number one procurement priority right now. Buying the new KC-45A is a major step forward and another demonstration of our commitment to recapitalizing our Eisenhower-era inventory of these critical national assets. Today is not just important for the Air Force, however. It's important for the entire Joint military team, and important for our coalition partners as well. The KC-45A will revolutionize our ability to employ tankers and will ensure the Air Force's future ability to provide our nation with truly Global Vigilance, Reach, and Power," said General McNabb.
"It is the first step in our critical commitment to recapitalize our aging fleet to move, supply, and position assets anywhere. In this global Air Force business, the critical element for air bridge, global Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, and global strike is the tanker," said General McNabb.
The KC-45A will provide significantly greater air refueling capabilities than the current fleet of Eisenhower-era KC-135s it will begin replacing. For example, it will be able to refuel Air Force and Navy aircraft on every flight. These aircraft have different systems for receiving fuel and today the KC-135s must be set up for one or the other before takeoff. The KC-45A will be equipped for both systems on every flight and will also have connections for wing pods. When wing pods are installed, it can refuel two probe-equipped aircraft, such as Navy and many allied aircraft, at the same time. It can even be refueled in flight by other tankers.
The KC-45A will also have defensive systems that allow it to go into dangerous environments that are currently avoided. It will also supplement our airlift fleet by carrying cargo, passengers, and medical patients in a secondary role.
The KC-X source selection used a "best value" determination to select a winner based on five factors: Mission Capability, Proposal Risk, Past Performance, Cost/Price, and an Integrated Fleet Air Refueling Assessment (performance in a simulated war scenario). These five factors were developed after consulting with industry and were finalized prior to starting the competition. Considered together, these grading criteria ensured the Air Force maximized the capability delivered to the warfighter while optimizing the taxpayers' investment.
The Air Force followed a carefully structured process, designed to provide transparency, maintain integrity and promote fair competition. The Air Force met with offerors on numerous occasions to gain a thorough understanding of their proposals and provide feedback on their strengths and weaknesses. The Air Force also provided insight into government cost estimates throughout the process instead of waiting until the post-decision debrief. The competitors indicated they were pleased with the degree of communication.
The evaluation team was comprised of experts covering a broad spectrum of specialties from acquisition to operations and was hand-picked from across the Air Force and other government agencies.
As part of the process, the Air Force will now provide a written notice to both the selected and not-selected and offer to provide a debrief on their bid proposals. To maintain the integrity of that process, the Air Force will be unable to provide additional information about the proposals and contract.
"Today's announcement is the culmination of years of tireless work and attention to detail by our Acquisition professionals and source selection team, who have been committed to maintaining integrity, providing transparency, and promoting a fair competition for this critical aircraft program," said Secretary Wynne. "Through these efforts, we believe we will provide a higher-value resource to the warfighter and the taxpayer."
Source : US Air Force
GE's CF6 Engines To Power USAF Tanker Replacement Program
(Cincinnati, OH., March 3, 2008) -- General Electric Company CF6 engines will power the Northrop Grumman KC-45A aircraft, which was selected Friday by the United States Air Force (USAF) for its tanker replacement program.
The USAF KC-X program calls for 179 tankers, and is the first of three phases to begin replacing the USAF tanker fleet. Including engines, thrust reversers, the flight management system, and services, the approximate value to GE is more than $5 billion (USD) over the life of the program. Initial production engines are scheduled to be delivered in 2010.
"We are extremely pleased to support the Air Force in its number one acquisition priority, and we look forward to delivering a breadth of capability throughout the life of this program," said Scott Donnelly, president and chief executive officer of GE Aviation.
Northrop Grumman Corporation selected the GE CF6-80E1 engine, which has accumulated almost four million flight-hours in commercial operation on the Airbus A330 aircraft, on which the KC-45A is based. The KC-45A will benefit from a Tech CF6 program, launched in 2007 to incorporate advanced technology into the engine's high-pressure turbine area. New technologies include high-pressure turbine airfoil cooling advancements that will enhance operational reliability, lower maintenance costs and improve fuel burn retention.
The KC-45A Tanker carries 45,000 more pounds of fuel than current tanker aircraft, providing a significant boost to the USAF's global reach. It is also designed to refuel Navy and coalition aircraft, and to serve as a multi-role transport aircraft to move passengers, cargo and medical evacuation patients. The CF6 engine family is in service with more than 250 customers worldwide, including Australia and Saudi tankers, almost 7,000 engines delivered to date.
Source : General Electric
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Stuck in the middle...
Posts: 1,638
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like
on
1 Post
So... will the aircraft the RAAF and RAF have ordered, now become known as KC-45s?
I can just imagine a flight line - two aircraft on adjacent stands, both looking like militarised A330s - the one on the left, that's a KC-30; the one on the right, that's a KC-45...
Any clues as to whether the series will get a name (eg. stratotanker, Dakota, etc.)?
I can just imagine a flight line - two aircraft on adjacent stands, both looking like militarised A330s - the one on the left, that's a KC-30; the one on the right, that's a KC-45...
Any clues as to whether the series will get a name (eg. stratotanker, Dakota, etc.)?
Thread Starter
EADS MTA 1st In-Flight Wet Contact of its ARBS Successfull
News Category: [Defence-Air]
(Madrid, March 4, 2008) -- The first in-flight wet contact of the EADS MTA Air Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) has successfully been performed using an F-16 aircraft.
This advanced boom system, installed on an Airbus A310 used as a flight test bed, performed the wet contact with the receiver aircraft following the planned procedure, at an altitude of 27000 feet. The contact represented how the ARBS will be used during a typical air-to air refuelling mission. This is the 73rd test flight for the boom system totaling more than 200 flight hours.
Along the Flight Test Program the systems have been validated, the boom aerodynamic and the Flight By Wire control system have demonstrated outstanding handling qualities through the whole envelope, the dry contacts had been cleared in flight. After complete ground test refueling operations today fuel transferences in-flight have been made using F-16s from the Portuguese Air Force. This has been the last milestone in the development of the EADS MTA Boom.
The ARBS has been chosen by four of the five customers for the A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) and the first aircraft equipped with the ARBS will be delivered to the Royal Australian Air Force early next year.
The air forces of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have chosen the A330 MRTT equipped with the ARBS and the same system has been proposed on the KC-30. This is the variant of the A330 MRTT offered by Northrop Grumman, US partner of EADS that has just won the competition to supply 179 tankers to the USAF.
"This is another step forward in our Air Refuelling Boom System programme. It shows our commitment toward the most demanding customers to provide them with the most advanced air-to-air refuelling technologies and systems in the market", said Carlos Suarez, Head of EADS Military Transport Aircraft Division.
Source : EADS
Buster, I love your work!
News Category: [Defence-Air]
(Madrid, March 4, 2008) -- The first in-flight wet contact of the EADS MTA Air Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) has successfully been performed using an F-16 aircraft.
This advanced boom system, installed on an Airbus A310 used as a flight test bed, performed the wet contact with the receiver aircraft following the planned procedure, at an altitude of 27000 feet. The contact represented how the ARBS will be used during a typical air-to air refuelling mission. This is the 73rd test flight for the boom system totaling more than 200 flight hours.
Along the Flight Test Program the systems have been validated, the boom aerodynamic and the Flight By Wire control system have demonstrated outstanding handling qualities through the whole envelope, the dry contacts had been cleared in flight. After complete ground test refueling operations today fuel transferences in-flight have been made using F-16s from the Portuguese Air Force. This has been the last milestone in the development of the EADS MTA Boom.
The ARBS has been chosen by four of the five customers for the A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) and the first aircraft equipped with the ARBS will be delivered to the Royal Australian Air Force early next year.
The air forces of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have chosen the A330 MRTT equipped with the ARBS and the same system has been proposed on the KC-30. This is the variant of the A330 MRTT offered by Northrop Grumman, US partner of EADS that has just won the competition to supply 179 tankers to the USAF.
"This is another step forward in our Air Refuelling Boom System programme. It shows our commitment toward the most demanding customers to provide them with the most advanced air-to-air refuelling technologies and systems in the market", said Carlos Suarez, Head of EADS Military Transport Aircraft Division.
Source : EADS
Buster, I love your work!
Thread Starter
Wiley, I think that you are right. The fact that the US have ordered 4 "test aircraft" would indicate that they have specified their own fit instead of buying what other countries have ordered. The last article that I posted indicates the same boom being offered for the US aircraft - probably will have US made Probe & Drogue systems instead of the FR made systems. There should at least be airframe/engine compatability between RAAF/USAF tankers.
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Stuck in the middle...
Posts: 1,638
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like
on
1 Post
That EADS press release indicated that wet transfers had been made between the Airbus boom and a Portuguse F16 - that would be a F16 Falcon made by GD/LM and unless the 'guesies have modded their receptacles, it'll be the same as the receptacles on USAF F16s - hence a US standard.
Now unless the Seppos are planning to change the boom receptable standards on their next generation of fighters, logic suggests to me that if it fits a Falcon, it'll fit an Eagle, a Raptor and a JSF.
But that's logic and this is defence procurement we're talking about...
Did anyone else see the irony in the RAAF's first Airbus MRTT having the c/n '747'?
Now unless the Seppos are planning to change the boom receptable standards on their next generation of fighters, logic suggests to me that if it fits a Falcon, it'll fit an Eagle, a Raptor and a JSF.
But that's logic and this is defence procurement we're talking about...
Did anyone else see the irony in the RAAF's first Airbus MRTT having the c/n '747'?
Last edited by Taildragger67; 6th Mar 2008 at 14:19.
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Melbourne
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by Taildragger67
Did anyone else see the irony in the RAAF's first Airbus MRTT having the c/n '747'?
