Canada has awarded Airbus a 3.6-billion Canadian dollar ($2.7 billion) contract for nine A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft.
The investment is being made to modernize the country’s aging refueling aircraft fleet.
According to the Canadian Department of National Defence, four new Airbus A330 MRTT aircraft will be delivered to the Royal Canadian Air Force, while five used A330-200 aircraft will be converted to accommodate modern air refueling missions.
All nine MRTTs are expected to provide the service with increased flexibility in fulfilling various roles, including air-to-air refueling and cargo transport.
“I am pleased that today’s contract award announcement … will enable our government to continue to provide the Royal Canadian Air Force and its members with the advanced equipment they need to do their job, at the best value for Canadians,” Procurement Minister Helena Jaczek said.
Delivery of the tanker aircraft is expected to begin “within months.”
Supporting Global Operations
Operated by eight countries, the A330 MRTT is considered one of the most effective tankers based on fuel capacity and flight performance.
Having more fuel onboard makes it a “force multiplier,” increasing the range and effectiveness of various military aircraft.
The defense department explained that the Airbus A330 was the only vendor to meet the requirements of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
The aircraft will refuel not only current and future Canadian fighter jets but also support the global operations of the US and NATO partners.
“The Strategic Tanker Transport Capability brought forward today with the contract award for renewed air-to-air refueling, strategic transport, and aeromedical evacuation capabilities, will deliver modern equipment for our Canadian Armed Forces, who put their lives on the line every single day to defend our shared continent with the US, and support our allies in time of need,” Defense Minister Anita Anand stated.
🆕 The Government of Canada 🇨🇦 has awarded Airbus Defence and Space with a contract for 4️⃣ newly-built #Airbus #A330MRTT & conversion of 5️⃣ used A330-200s in a quest to strengthen Canada’s continental defence capabilities. The current contract has an order value of approximately… pic.twitter.com/YBEaR7EICN
— Airbus Defence (@AirbusDefence) July 25, 2023
