KC-30As Refuel JASDF F-2s
In response to China’s growing assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific region, Japan and Australia are deepening military ties and enhancing platform interoperability. The latest example of the growing defence co-operation between Tokyo and Canberra was the first-ever aerial refuelling of a Japanese military aircraft by an RAAF tanker.
Trials over three weeks in April an RAAF KC-30A and a JASDF Mitsubishi F-2. Aircrew and engineers ensured mechanical compatibility between the aircraft, and that they can be flown safely in a range of configurations and lighting conditions, said the DoD in Canberra.
Air Vice-Marshal Darren Goldie, Air Commander Australia, described the success of the programme as “a leap forward for Australia and Japan’s interoperability” that will facilitate the increasing complexity and sophistication of bilateral engagement between the two countries. “This is the first time that a RAAF aircraft has refuelled a JASDF aircraft, and [this] will help build the special strategic partnership between Australia and Japan,” he stated, adding the move will also facilitate Japan’s participation in Exercise Pitch Black 22 in August-September, which will take place from August to September in Australia’s Northern Territory.
The DoD said the programme represents two years of close co-operation between the RAAF’s Aircraft Research and Development Unit and the JASDF’s Air Development and Test Wing. The test programme involved nine flights flown in a variety of conditions – daylight, dusk, and night-time. The F-2s also flew in several configurations, including with and without external stores and fuel tanks.
During the trials, the KC-30A used its tail-mounted Advanced Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) to plug into a receptacle on the single-seat F-2A and dual-seat F-2B. It can extend to 19m, and is controlled by an air refuelling operator using fly-by-wire controls in the KC-30A’s cockpit. The tests were monitored by the refuelling operator using 3D display screens, as well as the F-2’s own crew, and a chase aircraft.
The RAAF operates a fleet of seven KC-30As from RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland, each of which can carry more than 100t tonnes of fuel.
