First Royal Saudi Air Force A330 MRTT is delivered for conversion as a Multi-Role Tanker Transport
Airbus Military’s initial A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) for the Royal Saudi Air Force is being readied for the installation of its mission equipment, bringing this new-generation aerial refuelling aircraft one step closer to a military service introduction in the Middle East.
The no. 1 Saudi Arabian aircraft was delivered last week to Madrid, Spain, where it will undergo its conversion process to the tanker configuration. This is the first of six A330 MRTTs being acquired for the Royal Saudi Air Force.
Also ordering A330 MRTTs is the United Arab Emirates, whose first of three multi-role tanker transports is scheduled to arrive in Spain next January for the conversion.
Based on Airbus’ popular A330 commercial jetliner, the A330 MRTT is outfitted with refuelling systems and specialised equipment for the role as a “flying petrol station.” It will provide in-flight refuelling for combat aircraft, airlifters and other platforms that are capable of being “topped off” in flight.
Refuelling while airborne is vital for the support of military operations and force projection deployments, allowing aircraft to operate over long distances and spend extended times aloft.
The A330 MRTT benefits from Airbus’ modern A330 airframe and fly-by-wire systems, providing a highly capable multi-role aircraft for in-flight refuelling, as well as the transportation of troops and cargo.
All recent competitions for next-generation aerial tankers have been won by the A330 MRTT – with selections made by the air forces of Australia, the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. A total of 28 A330 MRTTs have been ordered to date by these countries.
The Royal Australian Air Force will be the A330 MRTT’s first operator, with deliveries of its five aircraft to begin in 2010.
Development of the A330 MRTT is the responsibility of Airbus Military, a business unit that was fully integrated into Airbus earlier this year.
