C-27J Refueling Capability Proved

Alenia’s C-27J tactical airlifter has recently undergone a series of successful refueling trials with an Italian air force Boeing KC-767A tanker. During the test campaign the C-27J undertook “contacts” at altitudes between 10,000 and 20,000 feet, and at speeds of up to 220 knots. The trials also involved tanking at night with night-vision goggles. Refueling runs during turns, in turbulence and in an emergency descent were also accomplished successfully. The campaign demonstrated the C-27J’s ability to take on fuel at the rate of 2,800 liters per minute, which allows a complete top-up in five minutes. For the trials, Alenia provided a test crew and an instrumented aircraft. The aim of the campaign is to certify the aircraft’s in-flight refueling system, which has currently been adopted for Italy’s 12 C-27Js, and one of the three aircraft supplied to Lithuania.

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