Air Force News, news from Iraq - Air Force Times

Quick Links

Webtools

Click here for Military Times Webtools
http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2008/01/airforce_tanker_080129w/
news/2008/01/airforce_tanker_080129w

Boeing tanker finishes first night refueling


Staff report
Posted : Wednesday Jan 30, 2008 13:35:18 EST

Boeing’s KC-767 tanker aircraft — its entry into the competition for a $30 billion Air Force contract — completed its first nighttime refueling Saturday when it transferred fuel to an F-15E flying over Missouri, Boeing announced Tuesday.

The tanker, scheduled for delivery to the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force early this year, departed McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., and connected its boom to an F-15E 11 times during dusk and night conditions, according to a Boeing press release.

Boeing uses the F-15E under a research and development agreement with the Air Force, the press release said.

To date, Boeing has logged more than 1,000 flight hours on the KC-767, according to the press release.

Boeing officials hope the Air Force chooses the KC-767 as the winner in the $30 billion, 179-plane tanker competition. An EADS/Northrop Grumman team is offering an Airbus 330 variant called the KC-30.

A decision from the Air Force is expected in February.

The Air Force hopes to have the first new tanker in the air by 2013 to replace the aging KC-135s, some of which have been in service for 40 years.



Boeing A Boeing KC-767, one of two tankers scheduled for delivery to Japan this quarter, prepares to transfer fuel to F-15E1 over the skies of Missouri Jan. 26. It is the first nighttime refueling ever accomplished on a KC-767.

Contests and Promotions

CFC Info Center


Check out our in-depth guide to the Combined Federal Campaign.

Give The Gift Of Air Force Times


promo Holiday gift shopping has never been easier! An ideal gift for our men and women stationed overseas. Order your gift subscription here.

Marketplace

Military Times Gear Shop


BDU Belts BDU Belts
MIL-SPEC, Black aircraft aluminum buckle and Type-13 nylon webbing. Fits BDU-style uniform belt.

Price: $8.99

Military Discounts


Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.

Shoplocal

  Shop Local
Local Online Deals
Find the best deals at your local stores.