This article is based on an official press release from Moody Air Force Base.

On May 26, 2026, Moody Air Force Base in Georgia announced a significant tactical upgrade for its A-10C Thunderbolt II fleet. According to an official press release from the base, maintainers have successfully installed and tested the aircraft’s first air refueling probe. This modification transitions the venerable attack aircraft from relying exclusively on traditional “flying boom” refueling systems to utilizing a “probe-and-drogue” method.

We note that this development allows the A-10 to receive fuel from C-130-based tankers, such as the HC-130J Combat King II, at altitudes below 10,000 feet. The integration addresses an urgent combatant command requirement, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s operational flexibility for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and Close Air Support (CAS) missions.

Enhancing Tactical Flexibility for the Warthog

Shifting to Probe-and-Drogue Systems

Historically, the A-10 relied on the KC-135 Stratotanker’s flying boom for mid-air refueling. However, as noted in secondary reporting by The Aviationist, the A-10 has not been operationally certified to receive fuel from the newer KC-46 Pegasus tankers. Relying solely on high-altitude boom tankers limited the tactical flexibility of the A-10, forcing pilots to climb away from the battlefield to refuel and temporarily abandon their close air support overwatch.

The new probe-and-drogue system fundamentally changes this dynamic. By enabling refueling below 10,000 feet, A-10 pilots can now stay aligned with low-level CSAR and CAS missions without breaking formation or losing visual contact with the ground. The modification allows the A-10 to be supported by a wider variety of tactical tankers, including the HC-130J, MC-130J Commando II, and KC-130J Super Hercules.

Simultaneous Refueling Capabilities

Beyond altitude flexibility, the probe-and-drogue system introduces a critical efficiency upgrade. According to the provided operational details, the new system allows two A-10s to refuel simultaneously from a single HC-130J. This capability was impossible with the single-boom KC-135 method and drastically cuts down the total refueling time required for a flight of aircraft operating in contested or austere environments.

The Installation and Testing Process

Overcoming Maintenance Hurdles

The installation process at Moody Air Force Base moved rapidly. According to the press release, maintainers received the new probes on May 11, 2026, and began installation on the first of two aircraft on May 13. The collaborative effort involved Moody’s 23d Maintenance Squadron, including fuels craftsman Tech. Sgt. Brent Vargas, and Tech. Sgt. Wesley Zell, a specialized A-10 refueling probe installer brought in from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

While the installation is designed to take approximately four hours, the maintenance team encountered minor challenges with legacy hardware on the aging airframes.

“There’s been a lot of issues getting these bolts removed so we can put the probe on. These screws and bolts hardly ever come out anyway, so doing this is the time-consuming part of it. Once we get that part up, the install of the probe is very simple,” stated Tech. Sgt. Wesley Zell in the official release.

Successful First Flight

Following the hardware installation, pilots from the 74th Fighter Squadron conducted familiarization flights. On May 19, 2026, an upgraded A-10 successfully completed its first flight from an HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 71st Rescue Squadron.

“It’s a good capability for us. It’ll give us more options when we’re in future fights and during things as simple as moving across country or transoceanic crossings. It’s another capability that can help us,” noted Capt. Wayman, an A-10 pilot with the 74th Fighter Squadron, in the Moody AFB release.

Broader Military Context

AirPro News analysis

We observe a fascinating paradox in the U.S. Air Force’s current management of the A-10 Thunderbolt II fleet. The integration of this new probe-and-drogue technology comes at a time when the military has publicly stated its goal to fully divest and retire all A-10s by the end of the decade. In fact, according to April 2026 reporting by Air & Space Forces Magazine, the final class of new A-10 pilots has already graduated.

Despite its planned retirement, the “Warthog” continues to receive rapid capability upgrades to maintain its relevance in modern conflicts. Upgraded A-10s deployed to the Middle East in 2026 for Operation Epic Fury have been observed utilizing not only the new refueling probe but also advanced electronic warfare systems like the “Angry Kitten” pod. The rapid development and deployment of the refueling probe, first tested by the Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center in early April 2026, demonstrate a clear commitment by the Air Force to maximizing the aircraft’s lethality and survivability until its final day of service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the A-10 getting a new refueling probe?

The new probe-and-drogue system was developed in response to an urgent combatant command requirement. It allows the A-10 to refuel at lower altitudes (below 10,000 feet), enabling pilots to stay closer to the battlefield during Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and Close Air Support (CAS) missions.

What tankers can the A-10 refuel from now?

With the new probe, the A-10 can receive fuel from C-130-based tactical tankers, including the HC-130J Combat King II, MC-130J Commando II, and KC-130J Super Hercules. It also allows two A-10s to refuel simultaneously.

Is the A-10 retiring soon?

Yes. The U.S. Air Force plans to fully divest and retire the A-10 fleet by the end of the decade, and the final class of new A-10 pilots graduated in April 2026. However, the aircraft is still receiving critical upgrades to support ongoing operations until its retirement.

Sources:
Moody Air Force Base Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Airbus, supplemented by regional defense reporting.

Royal Thai Navy Expands Fleet with Two Airbus C295 Aircraft

On May 27, 2026, Airbus officially announced that the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has placed an order for two C295 military transport aircraft. Configured for advanced transport missions, this acquisition marks a significant step in Thailand’s ongoing military modernization efforts and deepens the country’s reliance on European aerospace technology.

According to the official Airbus press release, the new aircraft will be equipped to handle a diverse array of operational profiles. The manufacturer noted that the platforms are designed for flexibility, capable of executing missions ranging from logistics and surveillance to search and rescue (SAR) and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).

“The Royal Thai Navy orders two Airbus C295 in advanced transport configuration,” Airbus confirmed in its official release.

Regional defense reporting indicates the procurement is valued at approximately 3.77 billion baht, with funding allocated under Thailand’s 2025 fiscal budget. The formal contract signing is scheduled to take place in Spain in late May 2026, overseen by the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy.

Aircraft Capabilities and Mission Profile

The Airbus C295 is widely recognized for its versatility and ability to operate from short, unpaved, or austere airfields. The Royal Thai Navy’s specific configuration will feature specialized mission equipment tailored for a wider range of duties than standard tactical transport models.

Logistics and Aerial Surveillance

For logistical operations, the aircraft will facilitate the movement of military personnel, weapons, equipment, and disaster relief supplies. Furthermore, regional defense reports indicate that upgraded onboard systems will enable advanced aerial surveillance operations utilizing modern electronic imaging technology, enhancing the RTN’s maritime domain awareness.

Search and Rescue and Medical Evacuation

A critical component of the RTN’s new assets is their life-saving capability. The aircraft will be heavily utilized for both maritime and overland SAR operations. Additionally, they will support full-scale MEDEVAC missions, allowing for the rapid transfer of critically ill patients using specialized onboard medical equipment and emergency treatment systems.

Strategic Context and Fleet Standardization

This acquisition makes the Royal Thai Navy the latest branch of the Thai military to adopt the Airbus C295. The procurement highlights a growing standardization of Airbus tactical airlifters across the country’s armed forces, which is part of a broader initiative to modernize operational readiness.

Airbus’s Growing Footprint in Thailand

Based on Airbus corporate data and recent industry announcements, the C295 is now a staple within the Thai military ecosystem. The Royal Thai Army currently operates three C295 aircraft for cargo, troop transport, and parachuting training. Just days prior to the RTN announcement, around May 22, 2026, the Royal Thai Air Force signed a contract for two C295s in a tactical transport configuration. Additionally, the Royal Thai Police operates four CN235s, the direct predecessor to the C295.

Regional defense reporting notes that the RTN’s original procurement plan initially proposed the purchase of three aircraft. However, this strategy was later adjusted to acquire two highly specialized units to meet specific operational requirements while remaining within the 3.77 billion baht budget allocation.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that by selecting the C295, the Royal Thai Navy is strategically aligning its logistics and maintenance infrastructure with the Royal Thai Army and Air Force. This cross-branch standardization is highly likely to yield significant long-term cost savings in maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), and pilot training programs.

Furthermore, the RTN’s emphasis on MEDEVAC, disaster relief, and SAR highlights a growing trend among Southeast Asian militaries to procure “dual-use” assets. These aircraft are increasingly viewed as vital for peacetime humanitarian missions and natural disaster responses, proving their value beyond traditional national security roles. With this latest order, the C295 continues to solidify its position as the undisputed leader in the light and medium tactical airlifter segment across the Asia-Pacific region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much did the Royal Thai Navy pay for the Airbus C295 aircraft?

According to regional defense reporting, the procurement of the two aircraft is valued at approximately 3.77 billion baht, funded under Thailand’s 2025 fiscal budget.

What missions will the RTN C295s perform?

The aircraft are configured for a wide variety of missions, including logistics transport, advanced aerial surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).

Do other branches of the Thai military use the C295?

Yes. The Royal Thai Army operates three C295s, and the Royal Thai Air Force recently ordered two. The Royal Thai Police also operates four older CN235 aircraft.

Sources: Airbus Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Bombardier.

On May 26, 2026, Bombardier Defense announced an agreement to supply three Global 6500 aircraft configured for special missions to support maritime surveillance in Australia. According to the official press release, the aircraft will be operated by Metrea, a United States-headquartered defense contractor, on behalf of the Australian Border Force (ABF).

This acquisition represents a critical component of a broader civil maritime surveillance overhaul. As detailed in a May 22, 2026, announcement by the Australian Department of Home Affairs, Metrea Australia Pty Ltd was awarded a master contract to provide fixed-wing aerial surveillance across the nation following a competitive procurement process.

The overarching agreement mandates a fleet of 11 fully crewed, technologically advanced aircraft to ensure 365-day coverage of Australia’s vast maritime borders. The three Bombardier Global 6500s are slated to fulfill the high-endurance, long-range requirements of this comprehensive border security initiative.

The ABF Aerial Surveillance Contract and Transition

The introduction of the Global 6500s must be viewed within the context of Australia’s strategic border security upgrades. The master contract awarded to Metrea aims to deliver improved range, endurance, and near real-time information sharing to strengthen the national common operating picture, according to statements from the ABF.

Transitioning to a New Fleet

Services under the new Metrea contract are scheduled to commence on January 1, 2028. Until this transition occurs, the current Civil Maritime Surveillance Contract remains with Leidos Australia, which is responsible for patrolling Australia’s expansive 8.2 million square kilometer Exclusive Economic Zone.

Rather than a traditional direct procurement by the Royal Australian Air Force, this arrangement utilizes a contractor-owned, contractor-operated model. Metrea will provide “effects-as-a-service,” owning and maintaining the aircraft while operating them specifically for the civil border protection mission on behalf of the Australian government.

The Global 6500 and Bombardier’s Strategic Footprint

The selection of the Private-Jets highlights the growing industry trend of adapting large-cabin business jets for specialized military and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

Aircraft Capabilities

Industry specifications note that the Global 6500 boasts a maximum range of 6,600 nautical miles and a top speed of Mach 0.90. These performance metrics make the airframe particularly well-suited for navigating Australia’s extensive coastlines and remote maritime geography.

“The Global 6500 aircraft brings a new level of capability for maritime surveillance, with exceptional range, speed, endurance and reliability. Our teams are proud that this game-changing aircraft is the trusted choice to support the Australian Border Force’s aerial surveillance program,” stated Michael Anckner, Vice President of Worldwide Sales for Bombardier Defense, in the company’s press release.

Expanding Australian Presence

This defense contract builds upon Bombardier’s established and growing footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. According to company data, more than 75 Bombardier business jets, spanning the Learjet, Challenger, and Global families, are currently operating in Australia, with several already tasked for search-and-rescue and medical evacuation roles.

To support this fleet, Bombardier has made significant infrastructure investments. The Manufacturers opened a Melbourne Service Center at Essendon Fields Airport in 2022 and announced a new Line Maintenance Station in Perth in March 2025. Furthermore, highlighting the importance of the region for military contracts, Bombardier Defense established its first international office in Adelaide in May 2024, specifically targeting special mission customers in the Australian market.

AirPro News analysis

At AirPro News, we note that while the Bombardier announcement provides a solid foundation regarding the high-endurance segment of the ABF’s new surveillance fleet, several key details remain undisclosed, presenting areas for ongoing industry monitoring.

First, neither Bombardier, Metrea, nor the Australian government has publicly disclosed the financial value of the three-aircraft order or the broader 11-aircraft master contract. Second, the manufacturer and model of the remaining eight short-to-medium-range aircraft mandated by the ABF contract have not yet been publicly identified. Finally, the specific mission systems, radar, electro-optical turrets, and satellite communications architecture that will be integrated into the Global 6500s remain unannounced. The selection of the defense contractor responsible for providing and integrating this sensor suite will be a critical next step in the program’s development.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new Australian Border Force surveillance aircraft enter service?
Services under the new Metrea contract, which includes the Bombardier Global 6500s, are scheduled to commence on January 1, 2028.

Who will operate the new surveillance aircraft?
The aircraft will be owned, maintained, and operated by Metrea, a US-headquartered defense contractor, on behalf of the Australian Border Force.

How many aircraft are included in the total surveillance contract?
The overarching master contract awarded by the Australian Department of Home Affairs mandates a total fleet of 11 aircraft to provide 24/7 national coverage.

Sources

• Bombardier Press Release