Boeing Delivers 2nd KC-767 Tanker to Japan

Despite the setback loss of the USAF tanker program to Northrop-Grumman/EADS, Boeing IS building tankers... most recently, for Japan. Boeing delivered the second Japan KC-767 Tanker to the Itochu Corp. for Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), two weeks after delivering the first refueling aircraft to the Japanese military.

"We are thrilled to have followed our first delivery on Feb. 19 with this second KC-767 Tanker delivery on schedule," said George Hildebrand, Boeing KC-767 Japan program manager.

"This second tanker will add significantly to Japan's military refueling capabilities."

The KC-767 made the 13-hour non-stop flight to Gifu, Japan, near Nagoya, from Wichita, Kan., near Boeing's tanker modification center. Itochu will deliver the KC-767 Tanker to the Japan Ministry of Defense following in-country acceptance processes.

Japan has ordered four convertible freighter 767s, providing flexibility in carrying cargo or passengers while maintaining its primary role as an aerial refueling tanker. It features Boeing's advanced aerial refueling boom and Remote Aerial Refueling Operator (RARO II) system. Boeing is scheduled to deliver the remaining two refueling aircraft in 2009 and 2010.

Boeing also is building four tankers for Italy with delivery of the first aircraft planned in 2008. Since the 1930s, Boeing has built and delivered more than 2,000 tankers that feature 'the world's most advanced aerial refueling method with the highest fuel transfer rate available.'

FMI: www.boeing.com