Farnborough 2014 - Anyone on here going?

[Eric Mc]

Did it have big fat engines or skinny engines?

[FourWheelDrift]

Couldn't tell as it was only a quick view through the clouds and the radome got the attention. The sound was different to a usual airliner. So most likely USAF then?

[Eric Mc]

The USAF and the NATO examples have the older 707 style Part and Whitney JT3D low bypass turbofans.

The RAF, French and late production models have the fatter and more efficient CFM56 high bypass turbofans.

[anonymous-user]

According to UKAR, RAF E3 ZH103, was up an about today.

[RizzoTheRat]

ecsrobin said:

The US navy does not have any refuelling assets, so all refuelling is provided by Omega tankers.

Never knew that, although I suppose it makes sense, when you take your airport with you why would need air to air refuelling I assume F-18 can buddy tank for longer range missions?

[ecsrobin]

RizzoTheRat said:

Never knew that, although I suppose it makes sense, when you take your airport with you why would need air to air refuelling I assume F-18 can buddy tank for longer range missions?

Yes they can buddy tank.

[Qwert1e]

Eric Mc said:

Can't they refuel from USAF tankers?

Agreed. I believe there is a real push for compatibility between services and between countries.

USA has also made a huge effort towards having its entire military running, or able to run, on a single fuel. This has a massive logistical benefit.