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| Airbus A310 MRTT |
Militarymedia.net - The A310 MRTT is a converted military version of the A310 commercial aircraft, made by European multinational aerospace company Airbus. The abbreviation, MRTT, stands for Multi Role Tanker Transport, which perfectly explains this aircraft. It can be used as cargo, or troop transport aircraft, or air refueling tankers. The MRTT A310 made its first flight in 2003. It was adopted by the German Air Force (Luftwaffe). Four of the seven A310 military cargo aircraft in operation were converted into MRTT configurations. The first aircraft was delivered in 2004. The A310 MRTT was first used operationally in 2009 during the deployment of three Eurofighter Typhoons from Germany to India. Canada also operates a similar multi-role aircraft, called the CC-150 Polaris. It was reported that Pakistan had also ordered MRTT capabilities for its A310 aircraft.
During the conversion of the standard A310 aircraft, the military version was equipped with two air refueling pods under the wing. It is also equipped with an additional fuel tank with a combined fuel capacity of 28 tons, and other related equipment. The wings and floor of the aircraft were reinforced. It is capable of refueling day and night. As an air tanker, it has a fuel capacity similar to that of the U.S. KC-135R.
In the role of cargo and troop transport, the Airbus A310 MRTT can carry 214 passengers. It can also carry a variety of passenger and cargo combinations. Cargo can be stored on the main deck and in the lower deck cargo room. This aircraft can also be used as VIP transportation. The only significant drawback of the A310 MRTT is that it cannot land on uneven runways due to its commercial nature.
