Quote:
Originally Posted by Gun Grape
The S-3 was thrust into the air refuel job when the KA-6 was retired. With a much reduced capability. There was either 1 or 2 KS-3 Tankers modified with a fuel tank in the fuselage but it never went into production.
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Got me thinking on the tanker issue…
Super Hornet: 2117 gal internal fuel; 2220 gal external fuel; 4337 gal total fuel; RANGE of about 2200 km
Viking: 1933 gal internal fuel; 630 gal external fuel; 2563 gal total fuel; RADIUS of about 5100 km which is a RANGE of 10200km
If these numbers are at all accurate, it would means that the SH burns a TON more fuel per km traveled then the Viking. It would also mean that the Viking is by far the longer-ranged of the two aircraft, and has more available transferable fuel on a tanking mission. Making it the better tanker as I suspected.
I doubt these numbers are correct though, as they seem extraordinarily out of proportion. Probably random crap floating on the internet, and not exactly from the flight manuals haha. Does anyone have a clue if the ranges quoted are completely bogus?
Also, interesting on the additional tank idea. Might have made a wicked tanker with the addition of an dedicated fuel tank, such as featured on the HH-130. Although it would have taken up valuable space and weight that could be used for the Viking's other missions. I wonder if a somewhat portable fuel tank that could be placed in the Viking's cabin was ever thought of?