Lockheed Martin has revealed its stealth tanker concept in a U.S.-based “The War Zone” publication.
Since the introduction of radar systems into air defence, the surprise effect has been a major concern. The fifth generation aimed to provide a solution to radars by developing stealth technology. Such aircraft, however, need air domination, radar support, and a tanker support fleet to ensure the mission’s success. The next-generation air domination requirements of the U.S. Air Force point out the need for a stealthy tanker. This aircraft will not only support stealth fighter jets but will also not be an alarmer for the counterpart and will not become an easy target.
Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works advanced projects branch has proposed a new conceptual design for a stealthy pilot-optional aerial refuelling tanker. The U.S. Air Force is currently refining the specifications for a forthcoming Next Generation Air-Refuelling System (NGAS).
Skunk Works presented a graphic of its newest tanker idea refuelling two F-35A Joint Strike Fighters to The War Zone. A distinct perspective of this conceptual design was initially presented at the recently finished annual symposium of the Airlift/Tanker Association (ATA), as reported by Aviation Week.
The depiction illustrates an aeroplane featuring swept main wings and horizontal stabilisers, accompanied by canted outboard vertical stabilisers. The tanker possesses stealth characteristics, featuring a chine line that encircles the forward fuselage and extends on both sides behind the wing roots, along with saw-tooth panel lines at multiple locations.
