But tests with a mock-up produced such a negative reaction that the company all but dropped the technology, except for use in military refuelling aircraft.

ECONOMIST: Green aircraft

This includes anti-radiation missiles designed to destroy enemy air defences, advanced radars for its fleet of fighter jets, KC135 refuelling aircraft and Osprey V22 transport aircraft.

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EADS, a European aerospace group, along with an American defence firm, to build 179 refuelling aircraft for the American air force is seen in Paris as a sign of a new trust.

ECONOMIST: France and defence

The agreement includes plans for common maintenance and training on the A400M transport aircraft - which both countries are acquiring - and the possibility of France using the UK's air-to-air refuelling aircraft, when there is spare capacity and training.

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Turkey has already opened its airspace to US aircraft, and transport planes have been using the base at Incirlik for refuelling.

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On board the aircraft carriers there are typically 70-80 planes for defence, attack, refuelling in flight, jamming enemy communications and radars, and for airborne surveillance and control.

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