The Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) has completed an automatic air-to-air refueling (A3R) flight test campaign under night conditions. This milestone marks a significant step towards the certification of the A3R system, anticipated in 2025.
Between May and June 2024, ten test flights were conducted with a Royal Singapore Air Force (RSAF) A330 MRTT equipped with the latest A3R system configuration,
These tests involved refueling Portuguese F-16, Singaporean F-16, and F-15SG fighters, and another Singapore A330 MRTT acting as the receiver.
The night tests included contacts under various night illumination conditions and different receiver external configurations.
“This milestone was achieved by following the development of new A3R night operation algorithms and new camera system standards,” Airbus commented.
Minimizing human input in refueling operations
The A3R capability is designed to minimize the involvement of the air refueling operator (ARO) in performing the operation, shifting their role to monitoring the process. The aim of this is to decrease crew fatigue and the risk of human error.
The technology will also allow automated drone refueling, with the development of the Auto’Mate Demonstrator. In March 2023, Airbus completed the first test flight of this technology, showcasing in-flight autonomous guidance and control of a drone using an A310 MRTT tanker.