Boeing KC-767#Israeli tanker conversions

{{Short description|2000s American military tanker/transport aircraft}}

{{Infobox aircraft

|name= KC-767

|image= File:JASDF KC-767 (cropped).jpg

|caption= A Japan Air Self-Defense Force KC-767J

|type= Tanker/transport

|national_origin= United States

|manufacturer= Boeing Integrated Defense Systems

|designer=

|first_flight= 21 May 2005

|introduction=

|retired=

|status= In service

|primary_user= Italian Air Force
Japan Air Self-Defense Force

|more_users= Colombian Aerospace Force

|produced= 2003–present

|number_built= 9 (8 originally built, 1 converted){{Cite web |date=5 December 2022 |title=KC-767 Aerial Refuelling Tanker/Transport Aircraft |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/kc767/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227161955/https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/kc767/ |archive-date=27 December 2023 |website=AirForce Technology}}

|developed_from= Boeing 767

|variants=

|developed_into= Boeing KC-46 Pegasus

}}

The Boeing KC-767 is a military aerial refueling tanker and transport aircraft developed from the Boeing 767-200ER. The tanker received the designation KC-767A, after being selected by the U.S. Air Force (USAF) initially to replace older KC-135Es. In December 2003, the contract was frozen and later canceled due to corruption allegations.

The tanker was developed for the Italian and Japanese air forces, who ordered four tankers each. Financing of the development of the aircraft has largely been borne by Boeing, in the hope of receiving major orders from the USAF. Boeing's revised KC-767 proposal to the USAF was selected in February 2011 for the KC-X program under the designation KC-46.

Development

=Commercial Derivative Air Refueling Aircraft=

At the start of the 2000s a considerable and sudden increase in their maintenance costs was leading the U.S. Air Force to run a procurement program for the replacement of around 100 of its oldest KC-135E Stratotankers. Most USAF KC-135s are of the updated KC-135R variant.

In early 2002 the USAF began negotiations with Boeing on the lease of tankers based on the Boeing 767 after it considered the Airbus A330-based tanker, the KC-330, to be more costly and a higher technical risk.{{Cite web |last=Warwick |first=Graham |date=9 April 2002 |title=USAF rules out 'higher-risk' EADS tanker proposal and opts for 767 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/usaf-rules-out-higher-risk-eads-tanker-proposal-and-opts-for-767/42198.article |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019052719/https://www.flightglobal.com/usaf-rules-out-higher-risk-eads-tanker-proposal-and-opts-for-767/42198.article |archive-date=19 October 2021 |website=FlightGlobal}} The USAF said that an assessment of the two types "shows that the EADS offering presents a higher-risk technical approach and less preferred financial arrangement". It also said that the larger KC-330 "does not bring with it a commensurate increase in available air-refuelling offload".

In addition, the KC-767 has manual flight controls with an unrestricted flight envelope.{{cite web |date=4 March 2010 |title=Boeing to Offer NewGen Tanker to US Air Force |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2010-03-04-Boeing-to-Offer-NewGen-Tanker-to-US-Air-Force |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005014051/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2010-03-04-Boeing-to-Offer-NewGen-Tanker-to-US-Air-Force |archive-date=5 October 2023 |access-date= |website=Boeing}} The Boeing tanker officially received the KC-767A designation from the U.S. DoD in 2002 and that appeared in the 2004 edition of the DoD Model Designation report.{{Cite web |date=12 May 2004 |title=Model Designation of Military Aerospace Vehicles |url=https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodm/412015l.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231115173923/https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodm/412015l.pdf |archive-date=15 November 2023 |website=Executive Services Directorate}}

==USAF lease, cancellation and re-award==

For its Commercial Derivative Air Refueling Aircraft program, the USAF decided to lease around 100 KC-767 tankers from Boeing after it was selected.{{Cite web |last=Tirpak |first=John A. |date=1 August 2003 |title=100 Tankers |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0803tankers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528055549/https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0803tankers/ |archive-date=28 May 2023 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine}} Despite other nations engaging in leasing of military aircraft, there was some criticism. U.S. Senator John McCain questioned whether it is really cost-effective for the USAF to lease aircraft at all, particularly as the aircraft would probably not have many, if any, buyers when their U.S. military service ended. The Congressional Budget Office has also criticized the draft leasing agreement as fiscally irresponsible. In November 2003, a compromise was struck whereby the Air Force would purchase 80 KC-767 aircraft and lease 20 more.{{Cite web |last=Tirpak |first=John A. |date=1 February 2004 |title=Tanker Twilight Zone |url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0204tanker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230421013925/https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/0204tanker/ |archive-date=21 April 2023 |website=Air & Space Forces Magazine}}{{Cite web |last=Lunsford |first=J. Lynn |last2=Jaffe |first2=Greg |date=7 November 2003 |title=Pentagon Sets Compromise On Boeing Tanker-Lease Deal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106813380663927200 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240110225118/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106813380663927200 |archive-date=10 January 2024 |access-date=10 January 2004 |website=The Wall Street Journal}}

In December 2003, the Pentagon announced the project was to be frozen while an investigation of allegations of corruption by one of its former procurement staffers, Darleen Druyun (who had moved to Boeing in January) was undertaken. Reporter Joseph L. Galloway wrote that some documents found in congressional investigation indicated the A330-based tanker met more of the USAF specifications than the Boeing tanker and had a lower proposed cost.{{Cite web |last=Galloway |first=Joseph L. |date=28 March 2004 |title=Air Force Allowed Boeing to Rewrite Terms of Tanker Contract, Documents Show |url=http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/0328-09.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120925033204/http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/0328-09.htm |archive-date=25 September 2012 |website=Common Dreams}}{{Cite web |last=Galloway |first=Joseph L. |date=31 March 2004 |title=Air Force Let Boeing Rewrite Contract |url=http://www.military.com/NewContent/0%2C13190%2CGalloway_033104%2C00.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040614113619/http://www.military.com/NewContent/0,13190,Galloway_033104,00.html |archive-date=14 June 2004 |website=military.com}} Druyun pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nine months in jail for "negotiating a job with Boeing at the same time she was involved in contracts with the company".{{cite news |last=Cahlink |first=George |date=1 October 2004 |title=Ex-Pentagon procurement executive gets jail time |url=https://www.govexec.com/defense/2004/10/ex-pentagon-procurement-executive-gets-jail-time/17737/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108095404/https://www.govexec.com/defense/2004/10/ex-pentagon-procurement-executive-gets-jail-time/17737/ |archive-date=8 November 2022 |access-date=21 December 2006 |publisher=Govexec.com}} Additional fallout included the termination of Boeing CFO Michael M. Sears, who was sentenced to four months in prison in 2005, and the resignation of Boeing CEO Philip M. Condit.{{Cite web |last=Holmes |first=Stanley |date=15 December 2003 |title=Boeing: What Really Happened |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2003-12-14/boeing-what-really-happened |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200625191738/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2003-12-14/boeing-what-really-happened |archive-date=25 June 2020 |website=Bloomberg}}{{Cite news |last=Pae |first=Peter |date=18 February 2005 |title=Ex-Boeing CFO gets jail for tanker scandal |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sns-boeing-scandal-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230417125358/https://www.chicagotribune.com/sns-boeing-scandal-story.html |archive-date=17 April 2023 |work=Chicago Tribune}} The Air Force's KC-767A contract was officially canceled by the DoD in January 2006.{{Cite web |last=Majumdar |first=Dave |date=24 February 2011 |title=Boeing wins KC-X tanker battle |url=http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2011/02/defense-boeing-win-tanker-contract-022411/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721215931/http://www.airforcetimes.com/news/2011/02/defense-boeing-win-tanker-contract-022411/#selection-507.0-507.30 |archive-date=21 July 2012 |website=Air Force Times}}

=International acquisitions=

File:KC-767 Aeronautica Militare refueling B-52H 2007.jpg

==Italy==

Boeing continued development of the aircraft. Italy selected the KC-767A and signed a contract in 2002 becoming the launch customer, with delivery set for 2005. The Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) ordered four aircraft. This version is based on the 767-200ER and is named the KC-767 Tanker Transport, and is fitted with boom and hose-drogue refueling systems on the centerline with hose-drogue wingpod systems.{{Cite web |date=11 December 2002 |title=Boeing, Italian MoD Sign Contract for 767 Tanker Transportss |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2002-12-11-Boeing-Italian-MoD-Sign-Contract-for-767-Tanker-Transportss |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531153446/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2002-12-11-Boeing-Italian-MoD-Sign-Contract-for-767-Tanker-Transportss |archive-date=31 May 2023 |website=Boeing}}

Italy's aircraft became the first KC-767 to be assembled. The aircraft were initially built as 767-200ER commercial airplanes, then flown to a separate facility for conversion into tankers. Italy's first aircraft made its maiden flight on 21 May 2005.{{Cite web |date=21 May 2005 |title=Boeing Built First Italian Air Force KC-767 Tanker Makes First Flight |url=http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2005/q2/nr_050521m.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070203075457/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2005/q2/nr_050521m.html |archive-date=3 February 2007 |website=Boeing}} Italy's second aircraft arrived for modification at the facility of Boeing's partner, Aeronavali, in Naples, Italy, on 6 May 2005.{{Cite web |date=6 May 2023 |title=Italy KC-767 Tanker #2 Arrives in Naples for Modifications |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2005-05-06-Italy-KC-767-Tanker-2-Arrives-in-Naples-for-Modifications |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003204103/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2005-05-06-Italy-KC-767-Tanker-2-Arrives-in-Naples-for-Modifications |archive-date=3 October 2023 |website=Boeing}}

Delivery of the tankers to the Italian Air Force was delayed due to an issue with flutter of the wing pods and other technical issues. Boeing provided a 767 for training during this time.{{Cite web |last=Peruzzi |first=Luca |date=8 April 2009 |title=Italian budget crunch threatens AMX fleet |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/italian-budget-crunch-threatens-amx-fleet/85852.article |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110231603/https://www.flightglobal.com/italian-budget-crunch-threatens-amx-fleet/85852.article |archive-date=10 January 2024 |website=FlightGlobal}} After resolving the issues, Boeing delivered the first KC-767 in January,{{Cite web |last=Cenciotti |first=David |date=23 February 2011 |title=Introducing the Italian Air Force Boeing KC-767A |url=https://theaviationist.com/2011/02/23/introducing-the-italian-air-force-boeing-kc-767a/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002112925/https://theaviationist.com/2011/02/23/introducing-the-italian-air-force-boeing-kc-767a/ |archive-date=2 October 2023 |access-date=10 January 2024 |website=The Aviationist}} and the second in March 2011.{{Cite web |date=17 May 2011 |title=Boeing KC-767 Tankers for Italian Air Force Formally Enter into Service |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2011-05-17-Boeing-KC-767-Tankers-for-Italian-Air-Force-Formally-Enter-into-Service |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003231424/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2011-05-17-Boeing-KC-767-Tankers-for-Italian-Air-Force-Formally-Enter-into-Service |archive-date=3 October 2023 |access-date=10 January 2024 |website=Boeing}} These aircraft officially entered service on 17 May 2011 with the 14º Stormo.{{cite web |title=14º Stormo |url=http://www.aeronautica.difesa.it/organizzazione/REPARTI/divolo/Pagine/14Stormo.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160708193409/http://www.aeronautica.difesa.it/organizzazione/REPARTI/divolo/Pagine/14Stormo.aspx |archive-date=8 July 2016 |access-date=23 May 2019 |website=Aeronautica Militare - Ministero della Difesa}} After entering service, the two KC-767s have supported NATO operations in Afghanistan and Libya.{{cite web |date=7 November 2011 |title=Tanker used against Gadhafi |url=http://defensetech.org/2011/11/07/was-the-kc-767-tanker-used-against-gadhafi/#idc-container |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191218214331/https://www.military.com/defensetech/2011/11/07/was-the-kc-767-tanker-used-against-gadhafi |archive-date=18 December 2019 |website=military.com}} The final two tankers were delivered in late 2011.{{Cite web |date=5 January 2012 |title=Boeing Reports Fourth-Quarter Deliveries |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2012-01-05-Boeing-Reports-Fourth-Quarter-Deliveries |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922205135/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2012-01-05-Boeing-Reports-Fourth-Quarter-Deliveries |archive-date=22 September 2023 |website=Boeing}}

==Japan==

File:The KC-767J of 404th Squadron.jpg, 2010]]

In 2001, Japan selected the KC-767 over the Airbus A310 MRTT and signed a contract in 2003.{{Cite web |date=4 April 2003 |title=Boeing, Japan Sign 767 Tanker Transport Contract |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2003-04-04-Boeing-Japan-Sign-767-Tanker-Transport-Contract |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003192615/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2003-04-04-Boeing-Japan-Sign-767-Tanker-Transport-Contract |archive-date=3 October 2023 |website=Boeing}} The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) ordered four aircraft and has designated the tanker KC-767J. In June 2005, Japan's first aircraft arrived at Boeing's Wichita, Kansas modification center to be fitted out with the tanker equipment.{{Cite web |date=8 June 2005 |title=First Boeing 767 Aircraft for Japan Tanker Program Arrives in Wichita |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2005-06-08-First-Boeing-767-Aircraft-for-Japan-Tanker-Program-Arrives-in-Wichita |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207181749/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2005-06-08-First-Boeing-767-Aircraft-for-Japan-Tanker-Program-Arrives-in-Wichita |archive-date=7 February 2023 |website=Boeing}}

Delivery of the first KC-767J for the JASDF was delayed approximately two years due to development issues and the addition of the aircraft receiving FAA certification. The Japanese version of the tanker is equipped only with the boom refueling system. Boeing and its Japanese representative Itochu agreed with Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) to pay a penalty fee for the delivery delay, according to the MoD Statement.{{Cite web |date=16 March 2007 |title=KC－767空中給油・輸送機の納入遅延について |trans-title=Delayed delivery of KC-767 aerial refuelling and transport aircraft |url=http://www.mod.go.jp/j/news/2007/03/16.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090406082209/http://www.mod.go.jp/j/news/2007/03/16.html |archive-date=6 April 2009 |website=Japanese Ministry of Defense |language=Japanese}} The first operational KC-767J was delivered to the JASDF on 19 February 2008,{{Cite web |date=19 February 2008 |title=Boeing Delivers First KC-767 Tanker to Japan |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2008-02-19-Boeing-Delivers-First-KC-767-Tanker-to-Japan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111004907/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2008-02-19-Boeing-Delivers-First-KC-767-Tanker-to-Japan |archive-date=11 January 2024 |website=Boeing}} with the second KC-767J following on 5 March.{{Cite web |date=5 March 2008 |title=Boeing Delivers 2nd KC-767 Tanker to Japan |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2008-03-05-Boeing-Delivers-2nd-KC-767-Tanker-to-Japan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111005131/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2008-03-05-Boeing-Delivers-2nd-KC-767-Tanker-to-Japan |archive-date=11 January 2024 |website=Boeing}} The third KC-767 was delivered to the JASDF in March 2009. The three KC-767J aircraft reached initial operational capability (IOC) status with the JASDF in May 2009.{{Cite web |date=26 May 2009 |title=Boeing KC-767J Aerial Refueling Tankers Join Active Air Wing in Japan |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2009-05-26-Boeing-KC-767J-Aerial-Refueling-Tankers-Join-Active-Air-Wing-in-Japan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230927062421/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2009-05-26-Boeing-KC-767J-Aerial-Refueling-Tankers-Join-Active-Air-Wing-in-Japan |archive-date=27 September 2023 |website=Boeing}} The fourth tanker was delivered in January 2010.{{Cite web |date=12 January 2010 |title=Boeing Delivers 4th KC-767 Tanker to Japan Ministry of Defense |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2010-01-12-Boeing-Delivers-4th-KC-767-Tanker-to-Japan-Ministry-of-Defense |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922115017/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2010-01-12-Boeing-Delivers-4th-KC-767-Tanker-to-Japan-Ministry-of-Defense |archive-date=22 September 2023 |website=Boeing}} The aircraft are operated out of Komaki Air Base by 404th Tactical Airlift Tanker Squadron.

=Civilian 767 conversions=

File:Colombian Air Force Boeing KC-767-2J6ER Lofting-1.jpg

As a low-cost alternative for nations unable to purchase new-build AAR tankers, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) developed a variant of the KC-767, designated as the KC-767 Multi Mission Tanker Transport (MMTT).{{Cite web |title=KC-46 Tanker |url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/israel/767-mmtt.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603203107/https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/israel/767-mmtt.htm |archive-date=3 June 2023 |website=Global Security}} Designed as a cost-effective option against the KC-46 and the A330 MRTT, the KC-767 MMTT involves the conversion of pre-owned Boeing 767s into aerial tankers by the Bedek Aviation Group, a subsidiary of IAI. It is configured to suit the necessities of the customer, with multiple capabilities - including cargo transport, VIP transport, aerial refueling and ISR.

As part of its capabilities, the KC-767 MMTT incorporates a special cargo door, built-in cargo pallet capabilities, interchangeable passenger seats and operator consoles, ARP3 wing refueling pods and a fly-by-wire boom refueling system. As part of the conversion process, a significant proportion of the structure, wiring and systems of the aircraft are replaced, upgraded or refurbished, tailored to the customer's specific requirements.

According to Bedek, the KC-767 MMTT has a maximum takeoff weight of {{cvt|400,000|lb|kg|lk=on}} and a maximum fuel load of {{cvt|72,500-90,700|kg|lb|order=flip}}, with the capacity to support 13 Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters on missions with a range of {{cvt|1,000|nmi|lk=in}}.{{Cite web |last=Egozi |first=Arie |date=6 September 2010 |title=PICTURES: IAI tests Colombia's new 767 tanker |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/pictures-iai-tests-colombias-new-767-tanker/95687.article |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111010124/https://www.flightglobal.com/pictures-iai-tests-colombias-new-767-tanker/95687.article |archive-date=11 January 2024 |website=FlightGlobal}}

The first KC-767 MMTT, converted from a Boeing 767-200ER platform formerly operated by Air China, was tested in 2010; the converted tanker successfully demonstrated the aerial refueling of an IAI Kfir C10 fighter during a 3.5 hour test flight.{{Cite web |last=Donald |first=David |date=17 September 2010 |title=IAI Flies Boeing 767 Multi-Mission Tanker |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2010-09-17/iai-flies-boeing-767-multi-mission-tanker |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221218232413/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2010-09-17/iai-flies-boeing-767-multi-mission-tanker |archive-date=18 December 2022 |website=Aviation International News}}

==Colombia==

In 2008, IAI was contracted to convert a secondhand Boeing 767-200ER, into an AAR tanker which would also serve as VIP transport, for the Colombian Air Force.{{Cite web |last=Egozi |first=Arie |date=31 March 2008 |title=IAI to supply Colombia with Boeing 767 tanker |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/iai-to-supply-colombia-with-boeing-767-tanker/79447.article |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111010754/https://www.flightglobal.com/iai-to-supply-colombia-with-boeing-767-tanker/79447.article |archive-date=11 January 2024 |website=FlightGlobal}} The converted aircraft, nicknamed "Jupiter" (FAC-1202), was successfully tested in September 2010, and was delivered in November 2010. Colombia's KC-767 MMTT supported US Navy EA-18G Growlers during Exercise Red Flag 19-2 in March 2019.{{Cite web |last=Ruiz |first=Angela |date=21 March 2019 |title=Colombian Air Force supports US Navy Growlers for premier air-to-air combat |url=https://www.southcom.mil/MEDIA/NEWS-ARTICLES/Article/1793664/colombian-air-force-supports-us-navy-growlers-for-premier-air-to-air-combat/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230607194129/https://www.southcom.mil/MEDIA/NEWS-ARTICLES/Article/1793664/colombian-air-force-supports-us-navy-growlers-for-premier-air-to-air-combat/ |archive-date=7 June 2023 |website=U.S. Southern Command}}

==India==

In April 2022, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and IAI signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to convert six pre-owned civilian aircraft into AAR tankers/freighter aircraft, for the Indian Air Force (IAF).{{Cite web |date=6 April 2022 |title=HAL signs MoU with Israel Aerospace Industries, to convert civil aircraft to multi-mission tanker transport aircraft |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/hal-signs-mou-with-israel-aerospace-industries-to-convert-civil-aircraft-to-multi-mission-tanker-transport-aircraft |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230417125702/https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/hal-signs-mou-with-israel-aerospace-industries-to-convert-civil-aircraft-to-multi-mission-tanker-transport-aircraft |archive-date=17 April 2023 |website=The Free Press Journal}} Although the specifications of the selected aircraft are yet to be divulged, Indian representatives have stated that the aircraft likely to be procured for the IAF is the KC-767 MMTT.{{Cite web |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=6 April 2022 |title=HAL ties up with IAI of Israel to convert passenger aircraft into mid-air refuellers |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-ties-up-with-iai-of-israel-to-convert-passenger-aircraft-into-mid-air-refuellers/article65296877.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230417124956/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hal-ties-up-with-iai-of-israel-to-convert-passenger-aircraft-into-mid-air-refuellers/article65296877.ece |archive-date=17 April 2023 |website=The Hindu}}{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=6 April 2022 |title=India to convert passenger aircraft into fuel tankers, to bridge critical mid-air refuelling gap |url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-to-convert-passenger-aircraft-into-fuel-tankers-to-bridge-critical-mid-air-refuelling-gap/905072/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528062553/https://theprint.in/defence/india-to-convert-passenger-aircraft-into-fuel-tankers-to-bridge-critical-mid-air-refuelling-gap/905072/ |archive-date=28 May 2023 |website=The Print}}

=Former interests=

==Australia==

Australia selected the Airbus A330 MRTT in April 2004 after competition with the KC-767 due to the A330's larger fuel and cargo capability.{{Cite web |date=16 April 2004 |title=EADS/Qantas wins refuellers, Tracey report |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/minister/HillTranscripttpl.cfm?CurrentId=3748 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041227231215/http://www.defence.gov.au/minister/HillTranscripttpl.cfm?CurrentId=3748 |archive-date=27 December 2004 |website=Australian Ministry of Defence}}[http://www.defence.gov.au/minister/HillTranscripttpl.cfm?CurrentId=3748 Senator Robert Hill Press Conference transcript], Australian Department of Defence, 16 April 2004.

==United Kingdom==

Boeing, teamed with BAE Systems and British Airways, offered the KC-767 to the UK's RAF for its Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft. The companies formed the Tanker Transport Services Consortium (TTSC). British Airways would provide the 767 aircraft, Boeing would provide the conversion technology based on its KC-767 tanker design and BAE Systems would perform the majority of aircraft modifications. Marshall Aerospace, Serco, Spectrum, and Capital were also part of TTSC. The Ministry of Defence announced in January 2004 that it had selected the Airbus A330 MRTT to fulfill this requirement.{{Cite web |title=Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) |url=http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/FactSheets/ProjectFactsheets/FutureStrategicTankerAircraftfsta.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080312174106/http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/FactSheets/ProjectFactsheets/FutureStrategicTankerAircraftfsta.htm |archive-date=12 March 2008 |website=UK Ministry of Defence}}

==Republic of Korea==

The KC-767 was to compete with the A330 MRTT for the Republic of Korea Air Force's procurement of four tanker aircraft.{{cite web |date=28 November 2013 |title=Korea to Pick Aerial Refueling Tanker by Next Year |url=http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2013/11/28/2013112801540.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230417124953/http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2013/11/28/2013112801540.html |archive-date=17 April 2023 |access-date=3 December 2013 |publisher=The Chosun Ilbo}} In June 2015, South Korea selected the A330 MRTT over the KC-46 for the procurement.{{Cite web |last=Drew |first=James |date=30 June 2015 |title=Airbus beats Boeing in South Korean tanker competition |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/airbus-beats-boeing-in-south-korean-tanker-competition-414161/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120175245/https://www.flightglobal.com/airbus-beats-boeing-in-south-korean-tanker-competition/117476.article |archive-date=20 January 2022 |website=FlightGlobal}}

==Brazil==

In 2013, the Brazilian Air Force Command (FAB) selected IAI to provide two KC-767-300ER MMTT tankers, under its KC-X2 procurement initiative.{{Cite web |date=15 March 2013 |title=IAI to Convert Two Boeing 767 Into Flying Tankers for Brazil |url=https://defense-update.com/20130315_iai-to-convert-two-boeing-767-into-flying-tankers-in-brazil.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230927161311/https://defense-update.com/20130315_iai-to-convert-two-boeing-767-into-flying-tankers-in-brazil.html |archive-date=27 September 2023 |website=Defense Update}} However, a contract for the supply of the two aircraft was never finalised, and the project was ultimately abandoned.{{Cite web |last=Allport |first=Dave |date=4 June 2021 |title=Brazil Green Lights Tanker Transport Acquisition |url=https://www.key.aero/article/brazil-green-lights-tanker-transport-acquisition |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416120650/https://www.key.aero/article/brazil-green-lights-tanker-transport-acquisition |archive-date=16 April 2023 |website=key.aero}}

=USAF KC-X program=

On 24 February 2011, Boeing's KC-767 proposal was selected by the USAF as the winning offer to replace part of the KC-135 fleet.{{cite news |last1=Trimble |first1=Stephen |date=24 February 2011 |title=USAF selects Boeing for KC-X contract |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/updated-usaf-selects-boeing-for-kc-x-contract-353642/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129035617/https://www.flightglobal.com/updated-usaf-selects-boeing-for-kc-x-contract/98569.article |archive-date=29 January 2022 |access-date=24 February 2011 |publisher=Flightglobal}}{{Cite news |last=Cassata |first=Donna |last2=C. Baldor |first2=Lolita |date=24 February 2011 |title=Boeing gets $35 billion Air Force tanker order |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna41766812 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230415200947/https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna41766812 |archive-date=15 April 2023 |work=NBC News |agency=The Associated Press}} The aircraft received the designation KC-46A.{{Cite news |last=Capaccio |first=Tony |date=24 February 2011 |title=Boeing Defeats EADS for $35 Billion Air Force Tanker Program |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2011-02-24/boeing-wins-35b-air-force-tanker-deal |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111012724/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2011-02-24/boeing-wins-35b-air-force-tanker-deal |archive-date=11 January 2024 |work=Bloomberg |agency=The Associated Press}} Boeing was awarded an initial development contract to build and deliver 18 operational tankers by 2017.{{Cite web |date=24 February 2011 |title=Boeing Receives US Air Force Contract to Build Next-Generation Refueling Tanker |url=https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2011-02-24-Boeing-Receives-US-Air-Force-Contract-to-Build-Next-Generation-Refueling-Tanker |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003152558/https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2011-02-24-Boeing-Receives-US-Air-Force-Contract-to-Build-Next-Generation-Refueling-Tanker |archive-date=3 October 2023 |website=Boeing}}

Operational history

=Flight testing=

File:Air refuling(061101-O-9999K-001).jpg in a KC-10A simulator at Travis AFB, 2006.]]

On 23 January 2007, the KC-767 flight test aircraft set a program milestone by making its first hookup with a receiver aircraft, a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress. The "dry contact" transferred no fuel, but was intended to test the tanker's fifth-generation fly-by-wire telescoping boom. Unlike the KC-135 boom operator, who is prone, the KC-767 operator uses a remote station with a video display. The testing was being done at Edwards Air Force Base, and the test aircraft was destined for Italy once testing was complete.{{Cite web |date=24 January 2007 |title=Boeing KC-767 Tanker Completes First Contact With Receiver |url=http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q1/070124b_nr.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070220043439/http://www.boeing.com/news/releases/2007/q1/070124b_nr.html |archive-date=20 February 2007 |website=Boeing}}

The KC-767 extended its air refueling boom and transferred fuel to another aircraft for the first time on 5 March 2007.{{Cite web |date=8 March 2007 |title=Boeing KC-767 Tanker Completes First Fuel Offload to Receiver |url=http://www.boeing.com/ids/globaltanker/news/2007/q1/070308b_nr.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070328194402/http://www.boeing.com/ids/globaltanker/news/2007/q1/070308b_nr.html |archive-date=28 March 2007 |website=Boeing}} The tanker completed another test milestone on 12 April 2007 when its aircrew successfully extended and retracted both wing refueling hoses.{{Cite web |date=19 April 2007 |title=Boeing KC-767 Tanker Extends Wing Refueling Hoses for First Time |url=http://www.boeing.com/ids/globaltanker/news/2007/q2/070419b_nr.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070513222103/http://www.boeing.com/ids/globaltanker/news/2007/q2/070419b_nr.html |archive-date=13 May 2007 |website=Boeing}} In November 2007, Boeing decided to shift modification work on the KC-767A tankers for Italy and Japan from subcontractor Aeronavali's facility in Italy to Boeing's Wichita facility in an effort to meet delivery schedules.{{cite news |last1=Warwick |first1=Graham |date=27 November 2007 |title=Boeing rejigs KC-767 modification, testing to meet schedule |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/boeing-rejigs-kc-767-modification-testing-to-meet-s-219814/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129051959/https://www.flightglobal.com/boeing-rejigs-kc-767-modification-testing-to-meet-schedule/77544.article |archive-date=29 January 2022 |access-date=27 November 2007 |publisher=FlightGlobal}}

Variants

=Boeing KC-767 variants=

;KC-767A

:Tanker variant of the 767-200 originally for the United States Air Force; order cancelled. Four similar aircraft built for the Italian Air Force.

;KC-767J

:Designation for the KC-767A built for the Japan Air Self Defence Force, four built.

;KC-46A

:Tanker variant of the 767-2C for the U.S. Air Force.

=Converted Boeing 767 variants=

;KC-767 MMTT

:Multi-purpose tanker/cargo transport variant derived from the conversion of pre-owned Boeing 767s, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).{{Cite web |title=Multi Mission Tanker Transport (MMTT) |url=https://www.iai.co.il/p/multi-mission-tanker-transport-mmtt |website=Israel Aerospace Industries}}

;KC-X2

:Designation for IAI-converted Boeing 767-300ER, intended for the Brazilian Air Force; now abandoned.{{cite web |date=15 March 2013 |title=IAI wins Brazilian KC-X competition |url=http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2013/03/15/IAI-wins-Brazilian-KC-X-competition/UPI-98451363366032/%E2%89%A5 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151231204821/http://www.upi.com/Business_News/Security-Industry/2013/03/15/IAI-wins-Brazilian-KC-X-competition/UPI-98451363366032/%E2%89%A5 |archive-date=31 December 2015 |access-date=2 June 2013 |publisher=UPI.com}}{{cite web |last=Meier |first=Ricardo |date=27 January 2022 |title=Brazilian Air Force opens bid to acquire two Airbus A330-220 |url=https://www.airdatanews.com/brazilian-air-force-opens-bid-to-acquire-two-airbus-a330-220/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220522205807/https://www.airdatanews.com/brazilian-air-force-opens-bid-to-acquire-two-airbus-a330-220/ |archive-date=22 May 2022 |website=Air Data News}}

Operators

;{{ITA}}

Italian Air Force
14º Stormo - 4 KC-767A aircraft, in service.{{Cite web |date=16 August 2021 |title=Afghanistan: A Roma i primi rimpatriati. Riaperto l'aeroporto di Kabul - Mondo |url=https://www.ansa.it/sito/notizie/mondo/2021/08/16/arriva-nel-primo-pomeriggio-volo-rimpatrio-italiani-da-kabul_061d74f4-9729-4fb4-8439-5c7e1a620258.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230601044531/https://www.ansa.it/sito/notizie/mondo/2021/08/16/arriva-nel-primo-pomeriggio-volo-rimpatrio-italiani-da-kabul_061d74f4-9729-4fb4-8439-5c7e1a620258.html |archive-date=1 June 2023 |website=Agenzia Nazionale Stampa Associata |language=Italian}}

;{{JPN}}

Japan Air Self-Defense Force
404th Tactical Airlift Tanker Squadron - 4 KC-767J aircraft, in service.

;{{COL}}

Colombian Aerospace Force - 1 KC-767 MMTT, in service.{{Cite web |last=Egozi |first=Arie |date=4 November 2010 |title=PICTURE: Colombia accepts 767 tanker from IAI |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/picture-colombia-accepts-767-tanker-from-iai/96678.article |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111011220/https://www.flightglobal.com/picture-colombia-accepts-767-tanker-from-iai/96678.article |archive-date=11 January 2024 |website=FlightGlobal}}

Specifications (KC-767)

{{Aircraft specs

|prime units? = imp

|ref=KC-767A,[http://www.boeing.com/bds/globaltanker/docs/tanker_overview.pdf "KC-767 International Tanker Backgrounder"]. Boeing. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110812213828/http://www.boeing.com/bds/globaltanker/docs/tanker_overview.pdf |date=August 12, 2011}} and Boeing 767-200ER specifications[http://www.boeing.com/boeing/commercial/767family/pf/pf_200prod.page "767-200ER specifications"]. Boeing. [https://web.archive.org/web/20131003222042/http://www.boeing.com/boeing/commercial/767family/pf/pf_200prod.page archived]

|crew=3: 2 pilots, 1 boom operator

|capacity=up to 200 passengers or 19 463L pallets

|length ft=159

|length in=2

|length m=48.5

|span ft=156

|span in=1

|span m=47.6

|height ft=52

|height m=15.8

|empty weight lb=181,610

|empty weight kg=82,377

|gross weight main=

|gross weight alt=

|max takeoff weight lb=395,000

|max takeoff weight kg=186,880

|more general= *Maximum Fuel Load: 160,660 lb (72,877 kg)

|eng1 name=GE CF6-80C2

|eng1 type=turbofan

|eng1 number=2

|eng1 lbf= 60,200

|eng1 kn= 267.8

|eng1 alt=

|max speed note=Mach 0.86

|max speed mph= 570

|max speed kmh= 915

|cruise speed note= Mach 0.80

|cruise speed mph= 530

|cruise speed kmh= 851

|range nmi= 6,385

|range km= 12,200

|range note=; global with in flight refueling

|ceiling ft=40,100

|ceiling m=12,200

|avionics=

}}

References

External links

[http://www.boeing.com/bds/globaltanker/index.html KC-767 tanker page on Boeing.com]
[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/kc-767.htm KC-767 page GlobalSecurity.org]
[https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2008-01-29-Boeing-Completes-First-KC-767-Tanker-Night-Refueling "Boeing completes first KC-767 Tanker night refueling"]. Boeing, 29 January 2008.

Category:Boeing 767

C-767

Category:United States military scandals

Category:Twinjets

Category:Low-wing aircraft

Category:Aircraft first flown in 2005

Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear