Airbus Defense and Space (AirbusDS) has highlighted a potential capability gap for the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) regarding its aerial tanker fleet. The company argues that South Korea’s current number of tankers significantly limits the operational capabilities of its fighter jets.
The ROKAF currently operates only four KC-330 Signet multi-role aerial tankers, which are modified Airbus A330-200 passenger jets. While these tankers have proven valuable for missions beyond aerial refueling, including transporting COVID-19 vaccines and participating in humanitarian operations, their limited number raises concerns.
Prior to acquiring its first aerial tankers in 2018, the ROKAF faced significant limitations with the operational range of its fighter jets, particularly the KF-16. Mission durations near Dokdo Island were as short as 10 minutes, and near Ieodo Island, a mere 5 minutes. The introduction of aerial refueling via the KC-330 Signet tankers dramatically improved this situation, extending mission times to over an hour.
Airbus estimates that South Korea has roughly 230 aircraft capable of receiving aerial refueling, including F-15K, F-16, F35 fighters and E-737 Peace Eye airborne early warning and control aircraft. This translates to a ratio of approximately 58 combat aircraft to just one tanker. Industry standards, according to Airbus, suggest a much lower and more optimal ratio is around 22:1.
Airbus argues that expanding the ROKAF’s tanker fleet would provide significant operational benefits. By extending the airborne time of fighter jets, aerial refueling tankers allow for longer mission durations, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of air operations. Additionally, tankers can reduce maintenance costs by eliminating the need for frequent refueling landings, which reduces wear and tear on fighter jets. Furthermore, with extended range, fighters can operate farther from their bases, providing more flexible deployment options for missions such as border patrols.
The introduction of the KF-21, a next-generation Korean fighter jet designed to receive aerial refueling, further strengthens the case for expanding the ROKAF’s tanker fleet. The news article acknowledges that the ROKAF may need to rely on allied support if the tanker shortage persists.
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