Canada Awards Airbus A330 Refueling Military Tanker Contract Worth C$3.6 Billion

Canada’s defense ministry announced on Jul. 25 that Airbus has secured a C$3.6 billion ($2.7 billion) contract to supply four new A330 military refueling tankers and refurbish five used A330 tankers. The decision to select Airbus as the preferred supplier was made in 2021. The delivery of these tankers, all powered by Rolls-Royce engines, is scheduled to commence in 2027.

The primary objective of this contract is to replace Canada’s aging Polaris tankers, which have been in service since 1992 and will reach their operational limit by 2027. The new A330 tankers are set to enhance the country’s military capabilities and ensure efficient and reliable refueling operations.

The contract’s value, as indicated by the defense ministry, does not include tax. This investment marks a significant milestone for Canada’s defense infrastructure, bolstering its strategic capabilities for the years to come.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, reuters.com