The Luftwaffe has ordered four Airbus A310 multi-role tanker transports from Airbus for delivery in 2003-4. These can carry cargo or fuel, allowing them to provide various kinds of support for extended operations. The Luftwaffe currently has five A310 multi-role transports, and plans to convert two of them to tanker-transports. While these aircraft have been used to support the deployment of German troops to the Balkans, the new tanker capability will allow them to support the deployment of Tornado fighter-bombers.--Stephen V Cole