International\u00a0Counter Daesh\u00a0Coalition<\/a> and said that such operations \u201cincrease their overall capability\u201d.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\u201cDeveloping this new capability is extremely important as it adds increased flexibility and agility to our air operations here. Operating together strengthens the coalition collectively,\u201d said Wing Commander Pearson, an RAF Typhoon Squadron Commander in the Middle East.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The international coalition in the region has long carried out air-to-air refueling using various tankers from members.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\nThe RAF contributes\u00a0Voyager\u00a0multi-role transport tankers to the coalition for such operations and regularly refuel the aircraft from other nation partners. Likewise, RAF aircraft regularly refuel from other country\u2019s tanker aircraft.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n
\u201cWe are well trained and experienced in refuelling from the Voyager aircraft as operated by the RAF and other nations, refuelling from A400M however was different because of subtleties that make a surprisingly big difference; such as refuelling airspeed, hose response and markings, basket size and shape and aircraft lighting at night,\u201d a RAF Typhoon pilot said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The pilot added: \u201cThe German crews were extremely professional, and we enjoy working with them a great deal.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
The\u00a0Atlas A400M\u00a0is usually configured as a tactical transport aircraft and the RAF operated aircraft are utilized to sustain UK military activities in the Middle East and around the world.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n\n
The German Air Force, however, can also configure their aircraft for the air-to-air refueling role.\u00a0<\/p>\n