Airbus has secured a contract to supply four A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft for the Royal Saudi Arabia Air Force (RSAF).
Initially disclosed in February, the project is part of Riyadh’s plan to expand the service’s six-unit MRTT fleet that was completed in 2015.
The deal stipulates the provision of a logistics support package, spare parts, and training services in addition to the MRTTs.
Each aircraft will have hose and drogue pods, a boom system, and a receptacle to ensure the tanker’s own replenishment using other refueling aircraft.
The first A330 under the latest order will receive a conversion process in 2026. Delivery is scheduled for the following year.
Airbus noted that the RSAF will leverage the aircraft for transport missions alongside air-to-air refueling once commissioned.
“This new order demonstrates the high level of customer satisfaction with the A330 MRTT,” Airbus Defence and Space Head of Air Power Jean-Brice Dumont stated.
“This is the third contract signed by Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, making the RSAF one of the largest MRTT operators in the world.”
The A330 MRTT
The 58.8-meter (193-foot) A330 MRTT is controlled by two pilots, a third operator for air-to-air refueling tasks, and an optional crew member for the mission planning system.
It has a wingspan of 60.3 meters (198 feet) and can carry up to 45,000 kilograms (99,208 pounds) of payload.
The aircraft is powered by either General Electric or Rolls-Royce engines for speeds of up to 475 knots (880 kilometers/547 miles per hour) and an altitude of 12,600 meters (41,500 feet).
