Airbus Unveils New A330 MRTT+ Tanker Transport Based on A330-800neo

Airbus has introduced a new version of its A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the A330 MRTT+, based on the next-generation A330-800neo airliner. This announcement was made on July 24, 2024, at the Farnborough International Airshow.

The A330 MRTT+ will be equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and features an advanced wing design, offering an 8% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the current MRTT, which is based on the A330-200. Despite maintaining the same fuel load capacity of 111 tonnes, the enhanced efficiency results in greater fuel offload capability and improved operational range. Airbus claims the MRTT+ will offer a 41% range advantage over the Boeing KC-46A Pegasus.

The MRTT+ shares approximately 95% of its components with the existing MRTT, minimizing the need for a dedicated test aircraft. Airbus anticipates that the new wing will support the performance of the existing wing-mounted refueling pods. Flight trials for the MRTT+ will be conducted using customer aircraft, with the program’s full launch aligned with the first order.

Standard features of the MRTT+ include Airbus’s A3R autonomous air refueling system, with the option to upgrade to the A4R configuration for full control of boom refueling operations.

Airbus reports significant interest in the MRTT+ and continues to expand its MRTT order book, which now totals 82 units from 15 customers. The latest order comes from the Royal Saudi Air Force, which has requested four additional MRTTs. Canada is also preparing to introduce the A330 MRTT into service, with a fleet of nine aircraft, including some second-hand models converted to MRTT standards.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airbus.com