Added: Over a year ago by Royal Air Force
RAF Typhoons currently based in the Middle East have conducted air-to-air refuelling with a German Air Force, Atlas A400M for the first time.
The operations were carried out both during the night and the day to qualify the RAF pilots in refuelling from a different aircraft type and therefore increase their overall capability while operating in the International Counter Daesh Coalition.
“Developing this new capability is extremely important as it adds increased flexibility and agility to our air operations here. Operating together strengthens the coalition collectively.” Wing Commander Pearson, RAF Typhoon Squadron Commander in the Middle East
The International Coalition that is conducting the counter Daesh operations in the region has long carried out air-to-air refuelling utilising various tankers from the Coalition’s members. Such activities are known as providing ‘Purple Gas’.
The RAF contributes Voyager multi-role transport tankers to the Coalition for such operations and regularly refuel the aircraft from other Coalition partners. Likewise, RAF aircraft regularly refuel from the tanker aircraft from other nations. This training effectively increases the operational options for the Coalition.
"We are well trained and experienced in refuelling from the Voyager aircraft as operated by the RAF and other nations, refuelling from A400M however was different because of subtleties that make a surprisingly big difference; such as refuelling airspeed, hose response and markings, basket size and shape and aircraft lighting at night. The German crews were extremely professional, and we enjoy working with them a great deal." RAF Typhoon pilot
The Atlas A400M is usually configured as a tactical transport aircraft and the RAF operated aircraft are utilised to sustain UK military activities in the Middle East and around the world. The German Air Force, however, can also configure their aircraft for the air-to-air refuelling role.
