On November 28, 2024, the French Directorate General for Armaments (DGA) confirmed the successful completion of tests evaluating the NARANG (Nacelle de Ravitaillement Nouvelle Génération) refueling pod on the Rafale M naval fighter jet. The trials, conducted with an Airbus A400M simulating the flight characteristics of an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, validated the pod’s compatibility with low-speed refueling—a critical requirement for the turboprop-powered E-2D aircraft.
NARANG Pod: A Next-Generation Refueling System
Developed by Safran, the NARANG pod represents a significant technological upgrade over its predecessor. Key features include:
- Increased Fuel Transfer Rate: Transfers fuel at rates between 750 and 1,000 liters per minute, a marked improvement over the previous pod’s 530 liters per minute.
- Enhanced Diagnostics: Integrated self-tests and fault detection systems improve reliability and reduce maintenance requirements.
- Aerodynamic Efficiency: A front-mounted propeller powers the fuel pumps in flight, ensuring efficient operation at various speeds.
Certified for operational use in January 2021, the NARANG pod is integral to the Rafale F3-R standard and is employed in buddy-refueling missions (known as “nounou” or “nanny” configuration) by the French Navy’s Rafale M fleet. This configuration allows the Rafale M to deliver up to two tonnes of fuel at a range of 400 nautical miles from an aircraft carrier.
Testing Objectives and Results
The tests were conducted to evaluate:
- Compatibility with Lower Speeds: The A400M was used as a surrogate for the E-2D to replicate the turboprop aircraft’s slower flight speeds.
- Stability of Refueling Systems: Ensuring the refueling basket remained stable and the aerodynamic propeller efficiently powered the fuel pumps under these conditions.
Imagery released by the DGA confirmed the operation’s success, though specific performance metrics were not disclosed.
Preparing for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
France currently operates three E-2C Hawkeyes, which will be replaced by three E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes starting in 2027. The E-2D, equipped with air-to-air refueling probes, advanced radar, and communication systems, will significantly enhance the operational range and flexibility of the French Navy’s carrier air wing aboard the Charles de Gaulle.
The integration of the NARANG pod with the Rafale M ensures the fleet’s readiness to support the E-2D, particularly during scenarios where extended missions or low fuel reserves necessitate refueling. This capability is vital for maintaining airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) operations over extended periods.
Strategic Implications for the French Navy
The successful tests underscore France’s commitment to modernizing its naval aviation capabilities. Key benefits include:
- Extended Operational Range: The E-2D’s air-to-air refueling capability, combined with the NARANG-equipped Rafale M, allows for longer mission endurance.
- Improved Carrier Group Flexibility: Enhanced refueling capabilities bolster the effectiveness of the Charles de Gaulle carrier air wing.
- Technological Independence: By investing in advanced systems like the NARANG pod, France reduces reliance on foreign suppliers and strengthens its domestic defense industry.
Looking Ahead
The NARANG pod’s proven compatibility with low-speed refueling positions it as a critical component in the French Navy’s operational strategy, ensuring seamless support for the incoming E-2D Advanced Hawkeye fleet. As France prepares for the E-2D’s arrival in 2027, the successful integration of this technology will play a pivotal role in enhancing the Navy’s aerial capabilities and mission readiness.
