First RAAF KC-30A gets comms-cyber upgrade

Australia’s fleet of Airbus A330 (KC-30A) MRTTs is receiving improved communications, tactical datalink, and encryption systems to bring the fleet to the latest “enhanced A330 MRTT” standard. (Commonwealth of Australia)

The first Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Airbus KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) has received a communications and cyber upgrade.

Australia’s fleet of seven KC-30As are having their secure high-frequency (HF) and very-high frequency (VHF) radios, encryption device, and tactical datalink systems enhanced under the so-called Crypto Remediation Project (CRP), according to the Australian Department of Defence (DoD).

The upgrade programme was first announced in October 2020. Airbus has previously said the

CRP will elevate the Australian fleet to the “latest enhanced A330 MRTT” standard.

“These improvements aim to provide safer and more efficient communication and improve command, control, and situational awareness,” the DoD said in a statement. “Additionally, upgrades will increase KC-30A data throughput by 300 percent.”