The KC-10A Extender is an aerial Mobility Command advanced tanker and cargo aircraft designed to supply increased international mobility for U.S. military forces. though the KC-l0A's primary mission is aerial refueling, it can mix the tasks of a tanker and cargo aircraft by refueling fighters and simultaneously carry the fighter support personnel and equipment on overseas deployments. The KC-10A can transport up to 75 personnel and nearly 170,000 pounds (76,560 kilograms) of cargo a distance of regarding 4,400 miles (7,040 kilometers) unrefueled.
In addition to the three main DC-10 wing fuel tanks, the KC-10A has three massive fuel tanks below the cargo floor, one below the forward lower cargo compartment, one in the center wing area and one below the rear compartment. Combined, the capacity of the six tanks carry over 356,000 pounds (160,200 kilograms) of fuel -- nearly twice as much as the KC-135 Stratotanker.
Using either an advanced aerial refueling boom, or a hose and drogue refueling system, the KC-10A can refuel a wide variety of U.S. and allied military aircraft among the same mission. The aircraft is supplied with special lighting for night operations.
In addition to the three main DC-10 wing fuel tanks, the KC-10A has three massive fuel tanks below the cargo floor, one below the forward lower cargo compartment, one in the center wing area and one below the rear compartment. Combined, the capacity of the six tanks carry over 356,000 pounds (160,200 kilograms) of fuel -- nearly twice as much as the KC-135 Stratotanker.
Using either an advanced aerial refueling boom, or a hose and drogue refueling system, the KC-10A can refuel a wide variety of U.S. and allied military aircraft among the same mission. The aircraft is supplied with special lighting for night operations.
