Boeing 707

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Air Force Boeing 707s were mostly known for their role as VIP transport, but in reality the majority of its service is air transport of Australian Defence personnel and cargo, or as an air-to-air refuelling (AAR) tanker, providing combat effectiveness to our F/A- 18s or other Allied aircraft, such as European Tornado fighter/bombers, Harrier ‘jump jets’ and A-4 Skyhawk, when required.
In the early nineties several Air Force 707s were converted to air to- air tankers at Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport. The conversion involved extensive modification of the aircraft’s fuel and avionic systems, and installation of two wingtip pods housing the hose and drogue (basket) used for Air-to-Air refuelling. The modification does not affect the 707s air transport capability, with the refuelling pods being removable to reduce weight and drag on non-tanker missions.

A single 707 tanker can off-load up to 43 tonnes of fuel to a receiver aircraft (a Hornet’s internal fuel capacity is only 5 tonnes). This significantly increases the range and endurance of our frontline fighter force. The 707s regularly deploy entire F/A-18 squadrons to Singapore and Malaysia to take part in regional exercises. As a transport aircraft, the 707 can seat up to 152 passengers (economy class style), or carry 10 tonnes of cargo in each of the 3 lower cargo holds, and over 30 metric tonnes in the upper deck.

The 707 has numerous intermediate configurations, allowing for the best mix of passenger and cargo availability for a mission. In its VIP role the 707 is configured internally to provide high standard sleeping and office facilities. Dignitaries using our 707 have included HRM Queen Elizabeth II and Pope John Paul II, as well as our own Prime Minister and various Heads-of-State.
The Air Force 707 tanker and transport fleet are operated by No.33 Squadron at RAAF Richmond, approximately 50kms north west of Sydney.