Eaton, an intelligent power management company, has been awarded a $3.5 million contract by the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) to develop an advanced podded refueling boom, which will enable both traditional and emerging tanker aircraft to perform in-flight refueling safely. This contract was issued by AFRL’s Transformational Capabilities Office (TCO) following Eaton’s participation in the Air-to-Air Refueling Mechanism Digital Design Challenge organized by AFWERX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Department of the Air Force. Under this agreement, Eaton will collaborate closely with TCO, which manages AFRL’s science and technology innovations, to design the Small Hybrid Aerial Refueling Kit (SHARK). The SHARK design, which is platform-agnostic, aims to support a broad spectrum of current and future aircraft, including autonomous systems.
“We are honored to enhance our strong partnership with the U.S. Air Force by delivering a flexible, platform-independent refueling system that boosts operational capabilities and extends long-range power projection,” said John Sapp, president of Eaton’s Aerospace Group. “We’re excited to push the boundaries of aerial refueling with this new technology.”
As a global leader in aerial refueling, Eaton has heavily invested in modular boom solutions to keep pace with industry demands. Eaton’s extensive portfolio includes custom-designed solutions such as aerial refueling boom offload systems, receptacles, hose and drogue systems, and refueling probes. Over the past century, Eaton has transformed aerial refueling from a groundbreaking concept into an essential aviation capability, pioneering the world’s first hose and drogue system and driving advancements in operational efficiency, safety, and mission success.
Eaton provides cutting-edge aerospace technologies to commercial, military, and space markets worldwide, enhancing aircraft performance, efficiency, and safety. Their comprehensive product line includes hydraulic, fuel, and oxygen systems, as well as air and fluid conveyance, motion control, and engine solutions.
Dedicated to environmental stewardship and improving lives globally, Eaton develops products for diverse markets, including data centers, utilities, industrial, commercial, residential, aerospace, and mobility sectors. Driven by a commitment to ethical business practices and sustainability, Eaton supports customers in power management while contributing to renewable energy and a sustainable future. By leveraging trends in electrification and digitalization, Eaton aims to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and address urgent power management challenges, creating a lasting, sustainable impact for current and future generations.