The 12th and final Phénix MRTT aircraft for France was delivered on 21 September. (Airbus)
France has received its 12th and final Airbus Defence and Space (DS) A330-200 Phénix Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, the manufacturer announced on 21 September.
The arrival of the tanker-transport aircraft into Airbase 125 at Istres-Le Tubé concludes the French Air and Space Force's (Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace: AAE's) procurement programme that was launched in November 2014.
In AAE service, the Phénix replaced the Boeing KC-135R/C-135FR tanker and Airbus A340/A310 passenger transport aircraft.
The Phénix is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines and equipped with a combination of the Airbus Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) and underwing hose-and-drogue refuelling pods.
It is possible to configure the aircraft in a variety of layouts, carrying up to 271 passengers as well as medical evacuation arrangements including the French Morphée intensive care module carrying up to 10 patients and 88 passengers. A cargo door in the upper deck will facilitate the loading of stretchered patients, as well as enabling the aircraft to be better used as a freighter.
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