Team completes electromagnetic testing on the KC-46 tanker
NewsJuly 27, 2017
EVERETT, Wash. The Boeing-built KC-46 tanker has completed electromagnetic testing. This testing evaluates the aircraft?s ability to safely operate through electromagnetic fields produced by radars, radio towers, and other systems under mission conditions.
The Boeing-led team, included U.S. Air Force and Naval Air Systems Command representatives, conducted the test at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and Naval Electromagnetic Radiation Facility pads and also in the Benefield Anechoic Facility at Edwards Air Force Base, California.
During tests on the EMP pad at Patuxent River, the program’s second low-rate initial production KC-46 received pulses from a large coil/transformer situated above the aircraft. The outdoor simulation was designed to test and evaluate the KC-46’s EMP protection while in flight.
The KC-46A is a multirole tanker that is designed to refuel all allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures and can carry passengers, cargo and patients.
Boeing is assembling the KC-46 aircraft at its Everett, Washington facility.
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