Article Posted on : - Apr 21, 2010

The C-130H tanker aircraft.

GIFU, JAPAN (BNS): Boeing, in partnership with Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), has delivered a modified C-130H aerial refueling tanker aircraft to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).

The aircraft was delivered to the JASDF in late February, Boeing announced on Tuesday.

The C-130H, originally designed as a transport aircraft, was modified by KHI to incorporate Cobham air-to-air refueling pods and Boeing design modifications in its structure, wiring and fuel system.

The tanker currently provides aerial refueling for the UH-60J, a search and rescue helicopter.

The aircraft will now move into operational testing with the JASDF, Boeing said.