One Of Two Slated For Canadian Service

Aero-News has learned the first of two Canadian Forces A310 Multi-role Tanker Transports (MRTTs) outfitted for aerial refueling has been delivered by EADS following the installation of its tanker mission avionics package.

Canada’s A310 MRTT carries a pair of underwing hose and drogue refueling pods and is configured to support deployment of the country’s CF-18 Hornet fighter-bomber fleet, as well as other probe-equipped combat aircraft operated by allied countries. The refueling operator’s station is located behind the cockpit.

Equipment incorporated in the Canadian A310 MRTT’s avionics suite includes a mission computer subsystem for planning and in-flight management of refueling missions (towline and trail missions), as well as a digital TACAN with air-to-air and beacon functions, plus digital V/UHF and DF for communications/navigation. The integrated radio suite is managed by a digital centralized radio control system.

Canada operates a total of five A310 transports (designated the CC-150 Polaris), which are stationed at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario, 437 Squadron. They carry troops, cargo, and government officials, and have served in United Nations, Red Cross and NATO initiatives – including operations in Afghanistan.

The second Canadian CC-150 Polaris designated for the tanker/transport role has begun its mission equipment outfitting for aerial refueling, and will be delivered later this year.

Another four A310 MRTTs are being equipped for tanker missions with the German Air Force.

FMI: www.forces.gc.ca, www.airbus.com