Aircraft

Outboard tank makes Gulfstream business jet a flexi-fueler

By Arie Egozi

The Gulfstream G550 that Israel Aerospace Industries and Gulfstream plan to offer as a multi-mode aircraft will be equipped with an under belly "gondola " type fuel tank to enable the aircraft to be used to carry passengers, for special missions or refuelling.

A senior IAI source said on 6 August that the idea is to offer the flexible configuration to countries that cannot afford to operate a dedicated fleet of aerial refuellers.

According to IAI, the G550 will be able to carry 25,000kg (50,000lb) of fuel.

IAI and Gulfstream are evaluating the market potential and the results will be the basis for a programme go-ahead.

Full-sized tankers could refuel the G550 in the air to extend its mission.

IAI has identified a growing demand for aerial refuellers and the G550 is only one option. The company is working on a multi-mission design proposal for the Israeli air force based on a Boeing 767 tanker. The Israel air force now uses is using Boeing 707 and Lockheed Martin C-130 tankers.

The air force has asked IAI to develop a system that will enable unmanned air vehicles to be refuelled in the air.