An RAAF KC-30A tanker-transport has refuelled an F-35 Joint Strike Fighter for the first time.

During a four hour test flight from Edwards Air Force Base on September 25 KC-30A A39-001 made 59 ‘contacts’ with F-35A development aircraft AF-4, five of which were ‘wet’, transferring a total of 42,000lb of fuel, Defence announced in a statement on Tuesday.

“Refuelling between the KC-30A and F-35A is an important step towards the KC-30A’s achievement of final operational capability (FOC) and represents continued progress in the development of the F‑35A,” Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Leo Davies said.

“This achievement is significant because the future of Australia’s air combat capability is reliant on the successful partnership between these two aircraft and our ability to be interoperable with our international partners.”