A number of nations still operate ageing Boeing 707s in the tanker role. This is one of four examples of what the Brazilian Air Force calls a KC-137. This air arm also operates two KC-130H tankers.
Lockheed Martin's Hercules has proved popular as a tanker. The latest C-130J variant is illustrated here by an Italian Air Force example, shown refuelling an RAF AW101.
Boeing KC-135s are the backbone of the USAF tanker force. Due to the age of these aircraft, the USAF is desperate to acquire a new tanker and recently decided on the A330. However, the selection has been thrown into doubt as the competition has been deemed not to have been fair. This KC-135R is pictured refuelling two F-16s.
McDonnell Douglas KC-10s are the USAF's most modern tanker. As well as using its boom to refuel aircraft, a centreline hose and drogue allows probe-equipped types such as this US Navy F/A-18C to also take on fuel.
To date, three air forces have opted for tanker variants of the A310. In this photo two of the airforces are represented: a German Air Force example in the background and a Canadian Forces A310 in the foreground with a German Tornado plugged in.
Artist's impression of an RAF A330 FSTA with two Eurofighter Typhoons. The type has been chosen to replace the RAF's Tristars and VC10s, with the first examples expected to enter service in 2011. Orders have also been placed by Australia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
India is one of the nations which in recent years has bought tankers to extend the reach of its airforce. This Il-78MKI is one of seven operated by the Indian Air Force. These aircraft are three-point tankers, and in this photo it is possible to see a wing refuelling pod, as well as the one attached to the side of the fuselage at the rear of the aircraft.
Airbus won its first A330 tanker order from the Royal Australian Air Force in 2004. Five A330 MRTTs will replace four Boeing 707s, the last of which has recently been retired. The first example of the new generation of tankers is due for delivery to Australia early next year.
A number of air forces have tactical aircraft that can act as buddy-buddy tankers. The latest type to adopt this role is the Super Hornet, which is replacing the S-3 Viking in US Navy carrier air wings. This photos shows a F/A-18F from VF-32 Swordsmen refuelling a similar type from the same squadron.
Italy and Japan have selected the 767 to fulfil the tanker role. Pictured is one of the four 767s Italy ordered to replace its Boeing 707s.
