The Republic of Singapore Air Force has secured world-first full certification for automatic air-to-air refueling on its Airbus A330 MRTT tankers. The A3R system, validated after comprehensive flight trials in Spain and Singapore, enables fully automated refueling in both daylight and nighttime conditions. Utilizing advanced sensors and computer vision algorithms, the system autonomously tracks and connects with receiver aircraft, enhancing safety and reducing crew workload. The certification builds on earlier milestones, including daylight automatic clearance in 2022 and expanded night operations in 2023. Trials incorporated multiple fighter platforms, underscoring interoperability with allied aircraft and reinforcing Singapore’s advanced aerial tanker capabilities.
