MultiRole Tanker & Transport
Cutting edge, forward thinking, adaptability, flexibility, working with the latest technologies, all this characterises working in the air force in an ever-changing world. To meet these new challenges, the air force commissioned new types into service in recent years, and with them introduced new capabilities within the air force.
The NH-90NFH (NATO Frigate Helicopter) took the place of the Seaking and Alouette III, on the one hand to fly life-saving missions off the Belgian coast, and on the other to support international operations aboard Dutch and Belgian frigates. Thanks to its advanced sensors, it can detect hostile ships and even submarines at long range, a new capability for the Belgian air force. The four Belgian NH-90NFH are based at Koksijde as part of the renowned 40th Squadron.
Even more recent is the introduction of the Airbus A330MRTT (multi-role tanker and transport), and this aircraft also introduces a new capability to the air force: Besides carrying up to 300 troops and 45 tonnes of cargo, it is capable of refuelling other aircraft in the air, significantly extending their range and operational deployability. It can deliver up to 3,000 litres of fuel per minute to friendly aircraft via a boom on its tail. This giant of the skies is part of a multinational unit of nine aircraft based at Eindhoven in the Netherlands. This unit includes the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Germany and Norway in addition to Belgium.
Together with other new types such as the A400M and imminent introduction of the F-35, these two new crown jewels illustrate the promising future of the Belgian air force. Discover them yourself during the Belgian Air Force Days on 9 & 10 September at Kleine-Brogel and who knows, maybe you will be working with these advanced aircraft in the future! Join the new generation!
