The UK Royal Air Force A330 MRTT Future Strategic Transport Aircraft (FSTA) has completed its first contacts with an F-18 fighter of the Spanish Air Force during a series of dry contacts near Madrid, Spain.

The FSTA made contact using the Fuselage Refuelling Unit, consisting of a hose and drogue similar to those fitted under the wings.

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Contacts were successfully performed throughout the refuelling flight-envelope at altitudes ranging from 8,000ft to 35,000ft and of speeds up to 325kt.

The Airbus Military A330 MRTT is a new-generation strategic tanker/transport aircraft.

Airbus Military has delivered 28 A330 MRTTs to Australia, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

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