KC-46 refuels Harrier II
US Air Force’s (USAF) Boeing KC-46 Pegasus tanker has successfully refuelled a US Marine Corps (USMC) AV-8B Harrier II in flight, it was announced on 14 March. The KC-46's hose and drogue system was used for the refuelling.
The refuelling missions are part of the Milestone C demonstration for the KC-46 tanker programme that will lead to a decision on low-rate initial production later in 2016.
The KC-46 Pegasus is intended to replace the USAF’s ageing tanker fleet. It will provide aerial refuelling support to the USMC, USAF, US Navy and allied nation coalition aircraft.
The KC-46 can refuel aircraft using both its hose and drogue and boom systems. The boom system enables the tanker to transfer up to 1,200 gallons of fuel per minute, while the hose and drogue systems allows refuelling of smaller aircraft such as the Harrier Jump Jet with up to 400 gallons of fuel per minute.
You may also like
More from Military Logistics
-
![Rolls-Royce gains major deal to support T-45 Goshawk engine]()
Rolls-Royce gains major deal to support T-45 Goshawk engine
New contract to support the Ardour turbofan is worth more than $1 billion.
-
![Brazil receives first A330 for multi-role operations]()
Brazil receives first A330 for multi-role operations
A pair of A330s will be converted by Airbus for aerial refuelling, logistical support, humanitarian aid, and medical evacuations.
-
![General Dynamics NASSCO to build three more US Navy replenishment vessels]()
General Dynamics NASSCO to build three more US Navy replenishment vessels
The latest $1.4 billion contract modification for General Dynamics NASSCO covers a new Expeditionary Sea Base ship and two more John Lewis-class fleet oilers.
-
![Australia onshores Super Hornet and Growler maintenance elements]()
Australia onshores Super Hornet and Growler maintenance elements
New MRO contract between Boeing Defence Australia and RUAG Australia replaces work previously done in the US.
-
![SEA to extend NSIPS to Queen Elizabeth-class carriers and Type 45 destroyers]()
SEA to extend NSIPS to Queen Elizabeth-class carriers and Type 45 destroyers
A systems integration contract for UK RN submarines is being extended to major surface vessels.
-
![USN exercises option for two more Navajo-class rescue and salvage ships]()
USN exercises option for two more Navajo-class rescue and salvage ships
Austal USA is to build two additional Navajo-class towing, salvage and rescue ships for the USN, after Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) exercised a $156.17 …
