A V-22 completed an initial test in the role of an aerial refueling tanker, announced Bell Boeing. During the August demonstration over north Texas, a V-22 fitted with a prototype aerial refueling system safely deployed, held stable, and retracted a refueling drogue as an F/A-18C and an F/A-18D aircraft flew just behind and to the side of the V-22, according to the industry team’s Sept. 5 release. “Adding aerial refueling tanker capability to the V-22 will enable operators to execute a wider variety of missions with greater flexibility and autonomy,” said Vince Tobin, Bell Boeing V-22 program director. Bell Boeing said the test activities would incrementally build in scope until the V-22 demonstrates the ability to refuel a variety of aircraft in flight.
Earlier this week, the People’s Republic of China confirmed it is halting its nuclear arms control talks with the U.S., in retaliation for the U.S. continuing to sell arms to Taiwan. The move reinforces a “pattern of behavior” from Beijing, experts say.