IAI's B767-based Multi-Mission Tanker Transport Demonstrates Aerial Refueling

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has completed initial flights testing of the Multi-Mission Tanker Transport (MMTT), an aerial refueling aircraft converted from a pre-owned B767-200ER (Extended Range) aircraft by Bedek Aviation Group (a subsidiary of IAI). Upon testing completion the aircraft will be transferred to the Colombian Air Force. The tanker conversion project spanned over more than two years.

The MMTT is configured with two Wing Air Refueling Pods (WARPs) of the ARP3 model, developed and manufactured by IAI. The MMTT can also be configured with a boom, or a mixed boom, Hose and Drogue refueling system. During the first 3.5-hour flight test, the full envelope, including altitude, speed, and Mach number, was opened without any flutter or buffet problems. Follow-on tests included in-flight refueling of an IAI C10 Kfir fighter jet, demonstrating easy and stable hook-up in each of the two WARPs.

IAI was awarded a multi-year contract in 2007 worth more than $150 million for the upgrade of the Colombian Air Force’s Kfir aircraft. The first upgraded Kfir C10 was redelivered in 2009 and have been in operational activity ever since.

Credit: IAI

Tags: ar99, Israel, Colombia