Arkansas to built LMXT boom

Lockheed Martin has confirmed that its LMXT strategic tanker aircraft’s aerial boom refuelling system will be built by Airbus in western Arkansas. The exact location has not yet been determined. Confirmation comes after both companies announced plans to expand their presence in Georgia and Alabama to support the configuration and assembling of LMXT. Based on the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the LMXT will offer an established fly-by-wire aerial refuelling boom, being used by allied nations to refuel U.S. Air Force aircraft during global missions. Lockheed Martin introduced the LMXT last September for the US Air Force’s KC-Y strategic tanker program. Should Airbus win the competition against Boeing to build the bridge tanker, the Airbus tanker will be constructed in two phases, which include the production of LMXT as an A330 airliner at Airbus’ facility in Mobile, Ala. In the second phase, the commercial aircraft will be converted into the LMXT tanker at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics’ facility in Marietta, Ga. This phase will also involve the assembly, configuration and integration of the Arkansas-built boom. (Source: Air Force Technology, 05/19/22) Previous