Northrop Grumman Integrated Defence Services (IDS), a fully-owned Australian subsidiary of Northrop Grumman, has signed an agreement with Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) for the provision of services in support of the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. Northrop Grumman IDS is the prime contractor for MRTT Through-Life Support (TLS). 

The partners say that the agreement will provide the Australian MRTT programme with improved access to an experienced, world-class aftermarket organisation. As a result, Northrop Grumman will also have increased access to a worldwide network and a more streamlined process of materiel management solutions based on AFI KLM E&M’s global expertise and footprint.

The agreement will see AFI KLM E&M provide services to Northrop Grumman, including aircraft component, auxiliary power unit and CF6-80E1 engine test, repair and overhaul services; ready access to line replaceable unit loans and exchanges; and global line station logistics solutions. It also allows for future extension of support services and general maintenance of other aircraft types.

The agreement reflects AFI KLM E&M efforts to boost its volume of military business beyond its involvement in the French Air Force E-3F midlife upgrade programme and its through-life support for the E-3F fleet. The A330 MRTT – based on the commercial A330 airframe – clearly offers potential in this respect. In addition to Australia, the aircraft is already in service in the UK, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It will enter service in France in 2018 and has also been selected by Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands and Luxemburg.