Re: RAAF considers aerial refuelling options

["L'acrobat" <sibehusky@optusnet.com.au>]

jtarver <jtarver@tminet.com> wrote in message
PIr84.4366$Aw2.130024@typ12.deja.bcandid.com">news:PIr84.4366$Aw2.130024@typ12.deja.bcandid.com...
>
> L'acrobat <sibehusky@optusnet.com.au> wrote in message
> 83rkrd$3jo$1@news1.mpx.com.au">news:83rkrd$3jo$1@news1.mpx.com.au...
> >
> > Joe Bloggs <psalm_121_1@yahoo.com> wrote in message
> > 3860eb38.0@news.highway1.com.au">news:3860eb38.0@news.highway1.com.au...
> > > Why not just get some ex-USAF KC-135 and modify them with new engines
> and
> > > avionics, structure upgrade. KC-135 can carry both the boom and drogue
> > > config... can refuel both F-18s and F-111s, not to mention the new
> AWACS,
> > > C-130J, and even the Orions.
> >
> > Given that you have just stated that the engines and avionics need
> > replacement and the structure upgrading - that doesn't leave much
original
> > plane, why not buy a new one that is specifically suited to the RAAF
> > requirement.
>
> You could not buy a KC-135 at this time anyway.  Those wishing to purchase
> such airplanes have had to buy 707s and convert them.

My guess is they'll go with either an airframe that is common with the AWACS
being purchased, a C130J or something common with an Australian airline to
cut down on maintainence costs (not have to introduce a whole new inventory
of spares).