AGARD Flight Test Techniques Series. Volume 11. The Testing of Fixed Wing Tankerand Receiver Aircraft to Establish Their Air-To-Air Refuelling Capabilities (Les Essais Pratiques sur les Avions Ravitailleurs et Ravitailles afin de Determiner leurs Capacite

摘要

Many military fixed wing aircraft types are now required to receive fuel from atanker aircraft. Tanker assets are also being increased. Users require a wide flight envelope for air to air refuelling (AAR) to give operational flexibility, and demand high flow rates to minimise transfer times. However, problems have often been encountered both in the receiver role and in the tanker role, involving deficiencies in handling qualities, structural aspects or fuel systems. This Volume in the AGARDograph 300 Flight Test Techniques Series therefore describes the points that need to be considered when planning AAR trials to clear a new tanker or a new receiver aircraft for Service use. The paper assumes some familiarity with current AAR practices and equipments. It covers the two AAR systems in widespread use, namely the probe and drogue, and boom refuelling systems. Many of the points that need to be considered are common to both. keywords: Flight test ; Receiver aircraft; Air to air refuelling; AAR trials; Tanker aircraft.