Airbus Voyager KC.2

Based on the A330 airliner, the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) is an aerial refueller and transport aircraft. To date 16 countries have ordered over 68 aircraft. The MRTT can be equipped to refuel other aircraft mid-air by the probe and drogue system or using a remotely operated boom. Airbus has demonstrated advanced refuelling technology using a boom equipped A330 MRTT whereby aircraft have been refuelled autonomously without any input from a boom operator within the aircraft. In addition to aerial refuelling, the MRTT can also carry up to 380 passengers or less in VIP configurations or up to 45,000kg of cargo.

The RAF operate a fleet of 14 Voyager KC.2 and KC.3 aircraft, with the KC.3 differing with having a third hose point in the fuselage for refuelling larger aircraft. The aircraft are provided under a private finance initiative by Air Tanker. Nine aircraft are kept on strength with 10 and 101 Squadron whilst the remaining five aircraft form a surge fleet which can be used when necessary. When not required by the RAF the surge fleet are chartered by Air Tanker to private companies as airliners and are regularly seen flying passengers on their summer holidays from British regional airports.

The RAF will be providing one of their Voyagers to appear in the static display at the Air Tattoo as part of our NATO 75th theme.

Photo Credit: RIAT Volunteer