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Issue 25 - September 20, 2007

In this issue of the EADS North America Tanker Activity Update:

The no. 1 KC-30 Tanker aircraft platform nears its first flight

The initial Northrop Grumman KC-30 Tanker aircraft platform is ready for its maiden flight following the installation of its two turbofan powerplants and final system checks.

The rapid completion of this initial developmental KC-30 aircraft, designated SDD-1, underscores Northrop Grumman's efficient and low-risk approach for quickly replacing the U.S. Air Force's KC-135 tanker fleet.

Final assembly of the KC-30 began June 21 at the EADS commercial aircraft center, and it quickly moved through the build-up process - benefiting from the accelerated production rate for the A330 commercial jetliner, on which the tanker is based.

With the aircraft now on the flight line, the KC-30 Tanker is undergoing final preparations for its first takeoff later this month. The pre-flight testing will include ground-based engine run-ups with the aircraft's two GE Aviation's CF6-80E1A3 powerplants. These 72,000-lb.-thrust engines are recognized for their high reliability, excellent fuel burn and durability in use worldwide on both military and civilian aircraft.

After its flight tests, the KC-30 Tanker will be ready to be outfitted for the aerial refueling role. Mission equipment will include EADS' fly-by-wire Aerial Refueling Boom System (ARBS), along with two all-digital FRL 905E-series hose and drogue refueling pods. This is the same configuration as selected by the Royal Australian Air Force, whose first KC-30B Tanker has been completed and is being readied for delivery.

The ARBS is the most advanced refueling system available today. Its intelligent controls incorporate built-in load alleviation, and allow automatic re-configuration of the boom's geometric refueling envelope for each type of receiver aircraft. With the capacity to offload up to 1,200 gallons of fuel per minute, the ARBS is easily adaptable to future mission requirements - including the refueling of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Also to be integrated on the KC-30 Tanker is a large main deck cargo door on the forward fuselage. This door enables the KC-30 to accommodate a full range of military pallets and cargo, and is the same as used on the new A330-200F freighter - which has been ordered by a growing list of international cargo airlines and aircraft leasing companies.

A powerful U.S. and allied industrial team led by Northrop Grumman has been established to produce and supply KC-30 Tankers for the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft is based on the A330 Multi-role Tanker Transport, which was selected to support the air forces of Australia, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates.

The active commercial production line for the A330 and its A340 four-engine variant is supported by a fully operational industrial supply chain. To date, more than 1,180 A330/A340s have been sold, with 830-plus aircraft delivered to international operators.

Contact:
Guy Hicks
Vice President – Communications and Public Relations
EADS North America
Tel: 703 236-3300
e-mail: guy.hicks@eads-na.com