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Originally Posted by JA Boomer
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.
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Not so. And thats the problem with just looking at raw numbers. It depends on the tanking mission profile.
The S-3 is a great "Near the boat, top off after launch or get a little fudge factor fuel before landing bird." But the 18 option is a better at "Forward fueler at the LoD" type things.
The S-3 could never keep up with a strike package so you would have to launch her and escorts in advance.
The F-18 option can launch with the strike package.
It can also self protect.
Another advantage of the F-18 is that any F-18 in any squadron can strap on the Buddy tank system and become a tanker.
The S-3 is an old airframe and will be gone by 2009.
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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?
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Yes there was one converted. Designated as the KS-3. Was not further developed.