Northrop Grumman, Lufthansa partner for Australian tanker support

Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Northrop Grumman and Lufthansa Technik have signed a pact to cooperate on the Royal Australian Air Force's KC-30A tanker Through-Life Support program.

Under the program, both defense contractors will provide the Australian armed forces with a larger access to a global inventory network, landing gear services, and aim to reduce repair times. Northrop Grumman officials say the deal provides significant savings for the country's government.

"This access to parts and expertise through this agreement is an important part of our vision to build Northrop Grumman as a regional support hub for a range of aircraft types for Australian and regional air forces," Northrop Grumman Australia chief executive Ian Irving said in a press release.

In addition to providing supporting equipment for Australia's KC-30A tanker, the agreement also facilitates general maintenance for other aircraft types.

The KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport is a modified Airbus A330 airliner built for air-to-air refueling operations and strategic airlifts. The tanker is capable of transferring over 100 tons of fuel to fighter aircraft and other airlifters.