Delivering the Fuel
With multi-point refueling and high fuel offload rates, the KC-30 Tanker is a highly versatile and capable aerial refueling platform.
The KC-30 is able to simultaneously refuel multiple receiver aircraft. Its mix of boom and hose & drogue refueling systems ensures that U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and allied aircraft can be accommodated on the same mission without the need for on-ground tanker reconfiguration.
The advanced boom uses the same proven fly-by-wire technology as the KC-30's flight control system, and it includes an automatic load alleviation system, independent disconnect function, along with redundant actuation systems and power supply. Improved controllability is provided by the boom's roll and pitch joint. Maximum fuel offload rate for the boom is 8,000 lbs./min.
Advanced features make the flying boom suited for all receiver aircraft and easily adaptable to future mission requirements - including the refueling of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The KC-30's intelligent control system enables automatic configuration of the boom's geometric refueling envelope for each type of receiver aircraft.
Northrop Grumman is developing two options for operating the boom and hose/drogue system. One option involves direct view of the receiver aircraft from the rear of the KC-30. Another uses a Remote Air Refueling Operator (RARO) station on the flight deck. Both positions are optimized for man-machine interface, utilizing a 3-D stereoscopic enhanced vision system for day/night boom operation and using modern fly-by-wire technology for the flight controls of the boom and drogue pods.
The KC-30's two underwing refueling pods are installed on pre-existing hardpoints that already are outfitted for fuel and power - requiring no structural modifications to the wing. The maximum offload rate for the pods is 2,800 lbs/min.
A centerline hose drum refueling unit is located under the aft fuselage, providing an additional hose and drogue contact point with a 90-ft. hose length. Maximum offload rate for this refueling unit is 4,000 lbs/min.
