The RMAF jet refuelling in mid-air from a USAF KC-135 Startotanker. - Photo courtesy of Royal Malaysian Air Force via Facebook
KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) has made history by conducting its first-ever Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR) training between its Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighter and the United States Air Force (USAF) KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft.
The AAR took place in conjunction with the bilateral Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) training between the RMAF, the United States Pacific Air Forces (US PACAF) and the Washington Air National Guard (WAANG) from Nov 12 to 13.
RMAF announced on Facebook that the training was part of the activities planned during the Bilateral Airman-to-Airman Talks between Malaysia and the US.
"AAR training is a refuelling technique from a tanker aircraft to other aircraft requiring fuel when both are airborne.
"This technique allows the receiving aircraft to remain in flight for longer periods and carry heavier loads during takeoff.
"The training involved a USAF KC-135 Stratotanker and an RMAF Su-30MKM and F/A-18D Hornet," the RMAF said, adding that AAR training offers strategic benefits such as expanding the range of aircraft operations, boosting readiness and strengthening capabilities for long-range missions without the need to land for refuelling.
It also enhances coordination between tanker aircraft and those being refuelled, and increases cooperation between the air forces of both countries.
"Overall, the bilateral training not only strengthens defence ties between Malaysia and the United States but also boosts RMAF capabilities in conducting joint operations with international partners.
"RMAF will continue to commit to expanding its capabilities and readiness, in line with rapid developments in defence technology and international cooperation," the RMAF said.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy to Malaysia also posted on Facebook, noting that the AAR was the first conducted between USAF and RMAF aircraft. – Bernama
