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Airbus A330s refitted for air-to-air refueling |
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Friday, 06 June 2008 |
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The first of four Airbus A330 aircraft has been delivered to Australia for air-to-air refuelling modifications to be made.
Australia has received the first of four Airbus A330s that will be converted into KC-30B Multi Role Tanker Transports (MRTT) under Project Air 5402, it has been announced.
According to Greg Combet, parliamentary secretary for defence procurement, Project Air 5402 will replace the Royal Australian Air Force's current fleet of Boeing 707 transport and refueling tankers, enhancing the air-to-air refuelling capability of the Australian Defence Force.
"This aircraft, which is the first of four Airbus A330s to be modified in Australia, today arrived at the Qantas Australian Conversion Centre at Brisbane Airport after departing the Airbus facility in Toulouse, France, earlier this week," Mr Combet said.
He explained that the KC-30B MRTTs would have significant strategic airlift capabilities, able to carry fuel loads of up to 111 tonnes and 270 passengers, as well as a combination of commercial and military cargo pallets in under-floor storage.
Earlier this month, Italian airline Air One signed a firm order for 12 Airbus A350-800s and 12 A330-200s, in addition to orders for a further 12 and 8 of the respective planes.
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