Airbus Military has successfully performed simulated air-to-air refuelling (AAR) of the new generation A400M airlifter from a C-160 Transall tanker of the French Air Force. The two aircraft conducted 20 “dry contacts”, in which no fuel is passed, including one lasting 12 minutes – representative of a normal refuelling operation. It is expected that “wet contacts” will take place in the first quarter of next year. The A400M has now successfully performed refuelling contacts with a VC10 of the Royal Air Force, the C-160, and an Airbus Military A330 MRTT new generation tanker/transport. The photo above shows the A400M refuelling from the C-160 in the latest trials.

Source: Airbus