U.S. KC-135 Tanker Conducts Historic First Aerial Refueling RMAF Sukhoi Su-30 Fighters
The air-to-air refueling (AAR) exercise between the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and the United States Pacific Air Forces (US PACAF) along with the Washington Air National Guard (WAANG) involved a KC-135 aircraft from the USAF and RMAF’s Su-30MKM and F/A-18D aircraft.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — In a historic first, a U.S. KC-135 tanker successfully refueled Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Sukhoi Su-30 fighters.
The RMAF conducted an air-to-air refueling (AAR) exercise with the United States Pacific Air Forces (US PACAF) and the Washington Air National Guard (WAANG) on November 12 and 13.
According to an RMAF social media statement, the AAR exercise is one of the activities planned as an outcome of the Bilateral Airman-to-Airman Talks between the two countries.
“AAR is a technique for transferring fuel from one aircraft, known as the tanker, to another aircraft that requires refueling while both are in flight,” the statement read.
“This technique allows the receiving aircraft to remain airborne for longer periods and carry heavier payloads during takeoff. The exercise involved a KC-135 aircraft from the USAF, as well as the RMAF’s SU-30MKM and F/A-18D Hornet aircraft.”
On the first day, the exercise began with an academic session led by Squadron 141, covering the fundamental theory and procedures of AAR.
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The second day saw the execution of the actual flight sessions, with senior officers from US PACAF, WAANG, and RMAF in attendance.
The exercise concluded with a final debriefing to summarize the outcomes and share experiences among the participating crews.
Additionally, the debrief aimed to assess the effectiveness of the exercise and confirm the achievement of its objectives.
“The implementation of this AAR exercise brings various strategic benefits, including extending the operational range of aircraft, enhancing readiness, and strengthening the capability to conduct long-range missions without the need to land for refueling.”
“Moreover, this exercise reinforces coordination between tanker and receiver aircraft and boosts cooperation between the air forces of both countries in joint operations.”
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According to the RMAF, this bilateral exercise not only strengthens defense relations between Malaysia and the United States but also enhances the RMAF’s ability to conduct operations with international partners.
“Through this exercise, RMAF remains committed to improving the capabilities and readiness of Malaysia’s air force in line with the rapid advancements in defense technology and international cooperation.” – DSA