KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport Aircraft

Based on the Airbus commercial A330 airliner, the KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft provides the Australian Defence Force and its allies with a global reach, aerial refuelling, and airlift capability.

The KC-30A features advanced communication and navigation systems, and an electronic warfare self-protection system for shielding against threats from surface-to-air missiles.

The KC-30A MRTT is fitted with two forms of air-to-air refuelling systems, namely an Advanced Refuelling Boom System mounted on the tail of the aircraft and a pair of all-electric refuelling pods under each wing. These systems are controlled by an air refuelling operator in the cockpit who can view refuelling on 2D and 3D screens.

The KC-30A can carry a fuel load of more than 100 tonnes and transfer part of that load to compatible aircraft, including:

• F-35A Lightning II
• F/A-18F Super Hornets
• E/A-18G Growlers
• E-7A Wedgetails
• C-17A Globemaster III
• P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft
• Other KC-30As
• Foreign aircraft such as the F-16C Fighting Falcon and B-1B Lancer

The KC-30A MRTT can remain 1,800 kilometres from its home base, with 50 tonnes of fuel available to offload for up to four hours.

In its transport role, the KC-30A is capable of carrying 270 passengers. It comes with underfloor cargo compartments which can accommodate 34,000 kilograms of military and civilian cargo pallets and containers.

Australia’s seven KC-30A aircraft are based at RAAF Base Amberley, operated by No. 33 Squadron.