A derivative of the Boeing commercial DC-10-30 convertible
freighter, the KC-10 Extender is an advanced tanker/cargo aircraft. It is
designed to provide rapid, worldwide force projection for the armed services,
as well as for humanitarian or peacekeeping missions.
Functions and Capabilities
Powered by three General Electric CF6-50C2 turbofan engines, the KC-10
Extender provides:
a versatile personnel and cargo carrier which deploys fighter aircraft,
including support equipment and personnel, nonstop to any point on the
globe.
a major increase in air refueling capability by increasing the
payload/range of cargo airlifters.
augmentation of the airlift fleet by carrying cargo and personnel
The KC-10 Extender can refuel a wide variety of U.S. Air Force, Navy, and
Marine Corps aircraft, as well as aircraft from allied nations. It can refuel
both receptacle-equipped and probe-equipped aircraft on the same flight. This is
accomplished by including:
additional fuel tanks in the lower fuselage compartments
an advanced air refueling boom
an independent hose reel/drogue system
a remote air refueling operators station (KDC-10)
an air refueling receptacle and military avionics.
The KC-10 Extender contributes strategic tanker capability to the U.S. Air
Force by providing rapid, worldwide force projection.
