AirTanker bids for future strategic tanker aircraft
AirTanker bids for future strategic tanker aircraft
Keywords: AirTanker, Fuel systems
AirTanker Limited recently submitted its innovative proposal for the MoD's ground-breaking £12 billion PFI (Private Finance Initiative) project to replace the RAF's ageing VC 10 and TriStar air-to-air refuelling (AAR) aircraft.
The "core" Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) air-to-air refuelling (AAR) and transport service, of around ten new Airbus A330-200 aircraft, is to be based at RAF Brize Norton and will be flown by RAF pilots and be supported and maintained by both RAF as well as civilian staff. The remaining aircraft, not required for immediate service, will be reconfigured for role as necessary and leased as surplus capacity, generating income for AirTanker through third party commercial passenger and cargo operations.
AirTanker informs us that, following an extensive evaluation of candidate aircraft, it selected the A330-200 as it offers the best overall solution to meet the strategic AAR and air transport (AT) requirements. In AirTaker's opinion its modern design facilitates development growth potential and counters long term obsolescence better than any of its competitors. It is said to have a huge fuel off-load capability and is unequalled in towline performance. All fuel is carried internally and with no need for auxiliary tanks the aircraft is genuinely dual AAR and AT capable.
