For previous updates, see our Newsletter Archive.
Issue 51 – March 4, 2009
In this issue of the EADS North America Tanker Activity Update:
A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport production marks a milestone with first wingset deliveries for the U.K.’s Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft
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EADS’s ability to build and deliver highly capable tanker/transport aircraft for NATO air forces and allied countries was underscored by the recent delivery of the first wingset for the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) to be operated by the U.K.’s Royal Air Force.
A total of 14 FSTAs will be built by AirTanker, the EADS-led consortium for use by the U.K. Royal Air Force in aerial refueling and transport missions, with operational service beginning in 2011. Based on EADS’ A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the FSTA will replace the country’s existing fleet of aging tanker/transport aircraft.
The twin-engine EADS A330 MRTT benefits from sustained production rates for the Airbus A330 commercial jetliner on which it is based. To date, more than 1,010 A330s have been ordered by civilian, military and governmental customers worldwide, with approximately 590 delivered. Production output for the A330 and its four-engine A340 version continues at a rate of 8.5 aircraft per month, ensuring a robust manufacturing capability as well as a fully responsive supplier network.
Providing a total air mobility solution, the A330 MRTT offers exceptional capacity for in-flight refueling, plus full flexibility in cargo delivery, passenger transport, aeromedical evacuation and other missions.
German Air Force A310 Multi-Role Tanker Transport supports the deployment of Eurofighters to India
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A long-range deployment of German Air Force Eurofighter combat aircraft to India was supported by one of the military service’s A310 Multi-Role Tanker Transports, demonstrating the capabilities of EADS-developed aerial refueling and airlift aircraft in operational scenarios.
This mission involved the A310 MRTT’s support of three Eurofighters and 70 personnel, which departed Germany to participate in the Aero India 2009 air show at Bangalore in February.
Three Eurofighters assigned to the JG73 “Steinhoff” Fighter Wing left Germany’s Laage Air Force Base on February 4, accompanied by the A310 MRTT from the Köln-Wahn Air Force Base. During the deployment, the A310 MRTT carried both personnel and cargo as the detachment that accompanied the deployment, and performed air-to-air refueling as well as navigation support for the fighter trio.
The four aircraft made a short stopover at Abu Dhabi Air Force Base in the United Arab Emirates, and arrived at their final destination – India’s Yelahanka Air Force Base near Bangalore – on February 5. After their presence at the Aero India 2009 show, the A310 MRTT and Eurofighters completed the return trip, arriving at their respective home bases on February 17.
Another milestone order for the A330-200, on which the KC-45 and A330 MRTT are based
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Korean Air has ordered six more A330-200s – marking another important repeat order for the aircraft that also serves as the basis for EADS' A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport and the Northrop Grumman KC-45.
This acquisition is the first for the new 524,700 lb. increased take-off weight version of the popular twin-engine widebody airliner, offering an extended flying range of up to 7,200 nautical miles.
Scheduled for delivery from 2010, the new aircraft will increase the total number of A330s ordered by Korean Air to 25 – composed of nine A330-200s and 16 A330-300s.
The A330-200’s increased takeoff weight version will provide Korean Air with the flexibility and range to open up new long-haul routes and provide highly efficient service linking Korea to Europe and destinations across the Pacific.
The twin-engine A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft currently in service. Aircraft delivered to date are flying with over 70 airlines worldwide.
Contact:
Guy Hicks
Vice President – Communications and Public Relations
EADS North America
Tel: 703 236-3300
e-mail: guy.hicks@eads-na.com
