Spain Reinforces Harrier Extension Plan with First A330 MRTT Refuelling

 

Spain has taken a concrete step to sustain its carrier-based aviation capability, as a McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II from the Spanish Navy has successfully conducted its first air-to-air refuelling with an Airbus A330 MRTT operated by the Spanish Air and Space Force.

The milestone is more than a technical achievement. It directly supports Spain’s broader plan to extend the operational life of its Harrier fleet into the next decade, currently projected to reach around 2032. With no immediate replacement available, Madrid has opted to sustain and adapt its existing platform rather than pursue a near-term acquisition of a next-generation STOVL aircraft.

Integrating the Harrier with the A330 MRTT enhances operational flexibility in a way that was previously limited. Air-to-air refuelling significantly increases the aircraft’s range and endurance, allowing for longer missions, extended patrol times, and improved deployment options from sea-based platforms. In practical terms, it helps offset some of the inherent limitations of an aging fleet.

This development also reflects a growing level of joint integration between Spain’s naval and air forces. The A330 MRTT is becoming a central asset within Spain’s aerial refuelling capability, and its compatibility with multiple platforms—including legacy aircraft like the Harrier—broadens its operational value. It also aligns Spain more closely with NATO partners that rely on similar tanker platforms and procedures.

The timing is significant. Spain is already pursuing a sustainment strategy for the Harrier that includes cooperation with Airbus and the acquisition of spare parts from retiring fleets operated by allies such as the United States Marine Corps and the Italian Navy. Ensuring that the aircraft can operate effectively within a modern support ecosystem is essential if that plan is to succeed.

While the Harrier remains a unique asset due to its vertical/short takeoff and landing capabilities, keeping it operational into the 2030s will require continuous adaptation. The successful refuelling test with the A330 MRTT signals that Spain is not merely maintaining the aircraft, but actively integrating it into a more capable and flexible operational framework.

In that sense, this first refuelling is not just a milestone—it is a clear indication that Spain is doubling down on its decision to keep the Harrier flying.

Spain Reportedly in Talks with Airbus for Three Additional A330 MRTT Tankers

 

Spain could be preparing to expand its aerial refuelling capability beyond the three aircraft already on order.

According to elEconomista.es, the Spanish Ministry of Defence is currently negotiating with Airbus for the acquisition of three additional Airbus A330 MRTT tanker aircraft.

If confirmed, the move would significantly increase Spain’s strategic air-to-air refuelling and transport capacity at a time of growing geopolitical volatility.

Background: Spain’s Existing MRTT Fleet

In November 2021, Spain signed a contract worth €810 million to acquire and convert three former Iberia A330 airframes into MRTT configuration at Airbus facilities in Getafe.

Two aircraft have already been delivered to the Spanish Air and Space Force.

The third unit is pending full operational entry into service.

Each A330 MRTT can carry up to 111 tonnes of fuel and transport around 300 troops, combining strategic airlift and tanker functions in a single platform.

According to El Economista, discussions are underway to expand the fleet by three additional aircraft. Airbus has declined to comment, stating it does not discuss “campaigns that may or may not be active,” a standard corporate response that neither confirms nor denies negotiations.

At this stage, there has been no official announcement from the Spanish Council of Ministers, no public contract signature, and no formal budget allocation disclosed.

Therefore, the reported talks should be viewed as credible press reporting rather than confirmed procurement policy.

Strategic Rationale

The potential expansion aligns with broader European trends since 2022, as NATO members reassess force projection and airpower sustainment capabilities.

Aerial refuelling aircraft have proven critical in:

• Sustaining long-range fighter operations
• Supporting NATO deployments
• Enabling autonomous expeditionary missions
• Reducing reliance on allied tanker support

With only three MRTTs, Spain’s surge and sustained availability remain limited due to maintenance cycles and operational demands. Expanding the fleet to six aircraft would provide a more robust and flexible tanker capability.

The report links the negotiations to the current global security environment and increased emphasis on force readiness. In high-intensity scenarios, tanker aircraft are force multipliers that underpin air superiority and long-range strike operations. Spain’s strategic autonomy within NATO frameworks increasingly depends on such enablers.

If formalized, the move would significantly reinforce Spain’s strategic air mobility and refuelling capabilities.

 

Poland Plans Major Expansion of Airlift and Aerial Refueling with A400M and A330 MRTT

Poland is preparing a significant leap forward in its air mobility and aerial refueling capabilities, with plans to acquire up to four Airbus A330-800 MRTT+ NEO tanker aircraft and up to ten Airbus A400M Atlas military transport aircraft. If confirmed, the move would mark one of the most ambitious airlift modernisation efforts in Central and Eastern Europe.

The planned acquisition reflects Warsaw’s growing emphasis on strategic autonomy, NATO interoperability, and long-range power projection. Poland currently relies heavily on a fleet of C-130 Hercules aircraft for medium airlift and on allied support for aerial refueling. The introduction of both the A330 MRTT+ and A400M would fundamentally transform these capabilities.

The A330-800 MRTT+ NEO, a next-generation tanker based on Airbus’ latest widebody platform, offers:

Long-range aerial refueling for fighters, transport aircraft, and bombers

Strategic airlift capability for troops and cargo

Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and VIP transport roles

Improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs compared to earlier tanker designs

For the Polish Air Force, such aircraft would significantly enhance support for F-16, F-35A, and allied NATO operations, particularly on the alliance’s eastern flank.

A400M: Filling the Gap Between Tactical and Strategic Airlift

The proposed acquisition of up to ten A400M Atlas aircraft would provide Poland with a versatile airlift platform capable of bridging the gap between tactical transports and heavy strategic airlifters.

Key advantages of the A400M include:

Transport of heavy and oversized cargo, including armored vehicles

Short and semi-prepared runway operations

Aerial delivery of troops and equipment

Potential secondary role as a tanker for helicopters and fast jets

Such capabilities would allow Poland to rapidly deploy forces within Europe and beyond, while reducing dependence on allied strategic airlift.

This potential procurement aligns with Poland’s broader defence posture, which has seen rapid investment across air, land, and missile defence domains in response to the evolving security environment in Eastern Europe. Enhanced airlift and refueling capacity would improve Poland’s ability to host and support allied forces, reinforcing its role as a key NATO logistics hub.

At this stage, the plans have not yet resulted in signed contracts, and key details—such as delivery timelines, final quantities, and industrial participation—remain under discussion. However, the scale of the proposal alone underscores Poland’s intent to field one of the most capable air mobility fleets in the region.

If finalized, Poland’s acquisition of A330 MRTT+ NEO tankers and A400M transports would represent a decisive upgrade to its air power, providing long-range reach, sustained operations, and enhanced NATO interoperability. The move would place the Polish Air Force among Europe’s leading operators of modern air mobility platforms.

India to Lease Airbus A330 MRTT from France to Boost Aerial Refueling Capabilities

In a Strategic move amid aging sanker Fleet the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to lease an Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) from the French Air and Space Force (Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace) for a period of three years. The decision, approved by India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), aims to strengthen the country's aerial refueling capabilities as it seeks a long-term solution to replace its aging Ilyushin Il-78MKI tankers.

This move marks a major milestone for the IAF, which has struggled for years with limited availability of its current tanker fleet. The lease will allow India to evaluate the A330 MRTT in operational conditions, while also addressing immediate requirements.

The IAF currently operates six Il-78MKI Midas aerial refueling tankers, acquired from Russia in the early 2000s. While these aircraft have played a vital role in extending the range of frontline fighters like the Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000, and Rafale, they suffer from chronic maintenance issues and low serviceability rates, often rendering them unavailable for missions.

India is suffering key issues with the Il-78MKI that include frequent technical failures leading to grounding of aircraft, difficulty in sourcing spare parts from Russia, especially amid geopolitical tensions, and outdated technology compared to modern refueling platforms.

To overcome these limitations, the IAF has long been considering a replacement, with the Airbus A330 MRTT emerging as the preferred choice. However, past procurement attempts have been stalled due to budget constraints and shifting defense priorities. The leasing option provides a cost-effective and immediate alternative to meet operational needs.

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Details of the A330 MRTT Lease Agreement

The leasing arrangement will enable the IAF to integrate the A330 MRTT into its operations without making an immediate full-scale purchase. The details of the agreement include:

Aircraft Type: Airbus A330 MRTT

Provider: French Air and Space Force

Lease Duration: Three years

Status: Finalizing terms, expected to be operational in the 2025–2026 financial year

Pilot and Crew Training: IAF personnel will receive training in France before the aircraft is stationed in India.

By leasing the aircraft, the IAF will gain hands-on experience in operating a modern aerial refueling platform, which could shape its future procurement strategy.

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Complementary Lease of Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker

In addition to the A330 MRTT, the IAF has also secured approval to lease a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker from Metrea Aerospace, a US-based defense company specializing in aerial refueling operations.

The KC-135 lease is intended primarily for training pilots and aircrews in aerial refueling operations, supporting joint exercises with allied air forces and enhancing operational flexibility by integrating multiple tanker platforms.

This dual-lease approach will significantly enhance India’s aerial refueling capabilities and allow the IAF to test both platforms before making a long-term procurement decision.

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Future Aerial Refueling Plans: Towards an A330 MRTT Fleet?

While the lease of the A330 MRTT is a short-term solution, India is actively exploring permanent acquisitions to modernize its aerial refueling capabilities. The MoD is considering a formal tender for purchasing additional A330 MRTTs, with the potential for local assembly under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Additionally, India is examining indigenous aerial refueling solutions, such as modifying the upcoming C-295 transport aircraft for limited refueling roles. However, a dedicated fleet of A330 MRTT tankers remains the most viable long-term solution.

Strategic Importance for India

The leasing of the A330 MRTT is a game-changer for the IAF, with far-reaching strategic implications:

1. Extended Combat Reach

The A330 MRTT will allow India to conduct longer-range strike missions, extending the endurance of Rafale, Su-30MKI, and Tejas fighters.

Increased refueling support will boost patrol capabilities over critical regions like the Indian Ocean and the Himalayas.

2. Strengthening Indo-French Defense Ties

France is already a key defense partner for India, having supplied Rafale fighter jets and Scorpène-class submarines.

The lease further solidifies bilateral cooperation in high-end defense technology.

3. Modernizing the IAF's Capabilities

The A330 MRTT offers advanced refueling technology, greater fuel capacity, and higher reliability than the Il-78MKI.

Experience gained with the A330 MRTT will help the IAF transition smoothly to a future fleet of dedicated tankers.

Conclusion

India’s decision to lease the Airbus A330 MRTT from France marks a critical step forward in its efforts to enhance aerial refueling capabilities and modernize its tanker fleet. By bridging operational gaps while evaluating the A330 MRTT, the IAF is laying the groundwork for a future acquisition of next-generation aerial refueling aircraft.

With the combined lease of the A330 MRTT and KC-135 Stratotanker, India is moving toward a more capable, flexible, and reliable aerial refueling strategy, ensuring that its airpower remains at the forefront of regional security dynamics.

Lockheed Martin's A330MRTT Variant No Longer in U.S. Air Force Tanker Aircraft Contest

Lockheed Martin has announced its withdrawal from the forthcoming U.S. Air Force tanker aircraft construction competition. The company had previously entered the competition in September 2021 in collaboration with Airbus, proposing their LMXT variant, which is a modified version of Airbus's Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) based on the A330 aircraft, originally manufactured in France and Spain.

"Lockheed Martin has decided not to respond to the Request for Information (RFI) for the recapitalization of the U.S. Air Force's KC-135 fleet. We are transitioning the LMXT team and resources from Lockheed Martin to new opportunities and priority programs within Lockheed Martin, including the development of air refueling solutions in support of the U.S. Air Force's Next-Generation Air Refueling System (NGAS) initiative. We remain committed to the accelerated delivery of advanced capabilities that enhance the U.S. Air Force's air refueling missions," the company stated.

In early February 2022, Lockheed Martin's top management revealed plans for the production of their forthcoming LMXT strategic tanker aircraft. This manufacturing initiative is set to take place in Mobile, Alabama, and Marietta, Georgia. The LMXT was initially introduced as Lockheed Martin's proposal for the U.S. Air Force's KC-Y "Bridge Tanker" program, starting in September 2021.

The LMXT marks the most recent development in Lockheed Martin's extensive legacy spanning over 60 years in the production and supply of tanker and large aircraft. These aircraft have been pivotal for the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, and have been used by numerous operators across the globe.

Drawing from the battle-tested blueprint of the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), the LMXT capitalizes on the established performance and capabilities of this strategic tanker aircraft. This particular model has been selected by 14 nations for the purpose of refueling various aircraft, including combat, transport, and maritime patrol planes, both for the U.S. and allied nations.

Related:

South Korea receives second A330 MRTT

France receives first A330 MRTT Phénix tanker-transport aircraft

The Singapore air force’s first Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) has arrived in the country.

NEWS 2022 March, 29

First Mission for Spain's Ejercito del Aire A330

The flight will transport 85 Ukrainian orphans to Spain. The children, who will travel under the tutelage of their caregivers from the orphanage.

The aircraft used is the first of three A330 units acquired by Spain which are being converted to multi-role transport and supply aircraft at the Airbus facilities in Getafe. 

This is one more of the humanitarian flights organized by the Ministry of Defense since the war in Ukraine began.

defensa.gob

Canada to Buy 88 F-35 Fighter Jets From Lockheed Martin After Years of Delays

Canada announced plans Monday to buy 88 US-made F-35 stealth fighter jets to replace its aging flee of F-18s.

The new aircraft’s central role will be to patrol North American air space with the US Air Force under NORAD and it could also be tasked with helping to bolster NATO defenses in Europe, or other overseas missions.

Lockheed Martin beat out Saab’s Gripen, after Boeing’s Superhornet was excluded from the running, and an Airbus-led consortium and France’s Dassault Aviation withdrew their Typhoon and Rafale fighters from the competition.

Ottawa had earmarked 19 billion Canadian dollars ($15 billion) for the purchase six years ago. Negotiations with Lockheed Martin would now proceed to finalize the contract within the next seven months with delivery of the aircraft as early as 2025.

Canada spent two decades helping to develop the stealth fighter with the United States and its allies.

But when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau‘s Liberals swept to power in 2015 he scrapped three previous administrations’ plans to purchase the state-of-the-art F-35 to replace its aging F-18 fleet, calling it too expensive.

Prior to Monday, Canada was the only nation in the partnership not yet committed to buying the F-35s.

It follows Germany’s announcement mid-March to buy 35 F-35s as part of a multi-billion-euro push to modernize its armed forces in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and Finland’s order of 64 stealth fighters in December after seeing a spike in incursions into its airspace by Russian jets in recent years.

Airbus said when it withdrew from the Canadian competition in 2019 that NORAD security requirements were too expensive, while sources told AFP that Dassault Aviation was unable to meet technical requirements tied to Canada’s membership in the Five Eyes intelligence sharing group of nations.

The Five Eyes group is comprised of Canada, the United States, Britain, Australia, and New Zealand.

Ottawa had planned to buy 18 new Boeing Super Hornets as a stopgap while it relaunched the procurement competition, but that deal fell apart over a trade dispute.

Canada bought 18 used Australian F-18 jets to fill an air force interim capability gap. These were similar to its own F-18s, which were first deployed in 1983.

thedefensepost

USAF wants to retire and scrap up to 33 F-22 Raptors

The Air Force plans to retire nearly three dozen of Tyndall Air Force Base’s F-22 fighter jets in fiscal 2023, ending tentative plans to move them to Virginia that have been on hold for more than three years.

The Raptors have been flying out of nearby Eglin AFB in Florida since a hurricane destroyed Tyndall in October 2018.

Officials want to divest 33 of the service’s oldest F-22s and use that money to instead research cutting-edge combat jet designs under the “Next-Generation Air Dominance” program. If Congress approves the idea, it would send all but three Block 20 Raptors to the “boneyard” at Davis-Monthan AFB in Tucson, Arizona, and shrink the overall fleet from 186 to 153 fighters.

The Air Force’s remaining F-22s would be redistributed across the Raptor squadrons, which include units at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia; Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii; and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and Eglin.

Eglin has hosted flying operations for the 325th Fighter Wing since Hurricane Michael destroyed their previous home at Tyndall Air Force Base in the Florida Panhandle. That includes the Air Force’s only F-22 training unit, the 43rd Fighter Squadron.

defensenews

USAF wants to retire 150 Aircraft but add up to 24 F-15E

The Air Force is looking to get rid of 150 aircraft, including 21 Warthogs, and add 24 F-15 fighter jets with an eye toward the Pacific region, according to its proposed $169.5 billion budget for fiscal year 2023 released Monday.

The Air Force request rolled out Monday as part of the Pentagon’s proposed $773 billion fiscal year 2023 budget.

The Air Force budget adds $2.7 billion over the previous year in procurement, with about $1.4 billion earmarked for 24 F-15 EX fighter jets. In 2022, the service added 12.

The Air Force also projects divesting 21 A-10 Thunderbolt II attack jets, known as Warthogs, in this proposed budget, which will be backfilled by F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets.

stripes

South Korea receives second A330 MRTT

South Korea has received the second of four Airbus Defence and Space (DS) A330-200 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft ordered in 2015, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) in Seoul announced on 28 March.
The aircraft is expected to become operational with the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) within a month, the MND said, adding that the two remaining platforms are expected to be delivered in November and December this year. The RoKAF officially introduced its first A330 on 30 January.
The tanker-transport aircraft, which is known as the KC-330 Cygnus in RoKAF service, is expected to extend the reach of the RoKAF’s strike aircraft into North Korea and improve strategic operations beyond the Korean Peninsula.
Gabriel Dominguez-janes

First Airbus A330 delivered to South Korean Air Force

The first Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport for the Republic of Korea Air Force has landed in South Korea for its acceptance tests.
According to a news release from the manufacturer, the aircraft, which was piloted by a joint Airbus and Air Force crew, arrived at Gimhae Air Base in Busan after a ferry flight from the Airbus Final Assembly Line in Getafe, Spain, with a stop in Vancouver, Canada.
It will now undergo ground and flight tests in Gimhae. The Air Force will be supported by a team from Airbus, which will be based in South Korea for the duration of the tests and until the aircraft is officially handed over to the customer.
This aircraft is the first of four ordered by South Korea.
defensenews

France receives first A330 MRTT Phénix tanker-transport aircraft

The French Air Force (Armée de l’Air: AdlA) has received into service the first of an expected 12 Airbus Defence and Space (DS) A330-200 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft.
One of the nine Phénix aircraft currently under contract arrived at its future-home station of Airbase 125 at Istres-Le Tubé on 27 September. The remaining eight aircraft and a further three that are expected to be ordered are all due to be delivered to the AdlA by 2023.
Set to replace the AdlA’s Boeing KC-135R and C-135FR tankers, as well as the Airbus A340 and A310 passenger transports, the Phénix is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines and equipped with a combination of the Airbus Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) and underwing hose-and-drogue refuelling pods.
janes

France wants to buy Airbus A330MRTT tankers sooner

France renewed a pledge to speed up by two years delivery of 12 Airbus A330 multirole transport tanker jets for the French Air Force by 2023.
A further three units will be ordered to bring the total fleet to 15 in the following years.
That boost for inflight refuelling was among the equipment modernization measures included in the 2019-2025 military budget law, formally signed by French president Emmanuel Macron on July 13.
The French Air Force has long lobbied for renewing the aerial capability, as the present aging tanker fleet is a key element in the airborne nuclear deterrent. French air operations in allied operations in the sub-Saharan Sahel region and the Middle East rely heavily on U.S. air tankers.
The A330 MRTT will replace a mixed fleet of C-135FR and KC-135R tankers — some of which are close to 60 years old — and A310 and A340 strategic troop and transport aircraft..
defensenews

The Singapore air force’s first Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) has arrived in the country.

Images posted on social media show the aircraft landing at Changi East airbase, where Singapore’s Boeing KC-135R tankers are based.
Flight tracking sites indicate that the aircraft (S/N 1762) flew direct to Singapore from Madrid’s Getafe air base.
Neither the nation’s defence ministry nor the air force announced the tanker’s arrival. The aircraft’s livery, however, recognises the 50-year history of the Republic of Singapore Air Force, with ‘RSAF 50’ on the tail, and ‘Our Home, Above All’ on the engine cowling.
Flight Fleets Analyzer indicates that the jet is powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent 772B-60EP powerplants, and that its first flight was on 10 November 2016.
In addition to a hose-and-drogue refuelling pod on both wings, the aircraft is also equipped with a refuelling boom. The aircraft has 260 passenger seats, and can be used to carry cargo pallets.
Singapore has five additional A330 MRTT’s on order. These will replace the nation’s four obsolescent Boeing KC-135Rs, which have an average age of 55.9 years.
The arrival brings the number of in service A330 MRTTs in service to 26. Other operators include the UK, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The Singapore arrival comes days after Canberra announced that its A330 MRTTs – designated KC-30A in Australian service – have delivered 100 million pounds of fuel (45,000t) during air-to-air refuelling missions in support of coalition missions over the Middle East.
flightglobal

Singapore to receive A330 MRTT Airbus tanker in September this year

Singapore will take delivery of its first Airbus Defence and Space A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport later this year, as the country’s Air Force celebrates its 50th anniversary.
According to a news release issued by Singapore’s Defence Ministry detailing events and activities that the Republic of Singapore Air Force will hold to mark the anniversary, the A330 MRTT will make its first public appearance at a parade on Sept. 1, the date the service was formed in 1968 as the Singapore Air Defence Command.
The latest photos of the aircraft — taken at Toulouse, France, in November 2017 during the testing and evaluation phase following the conversion to the tanker configuration — show it still in its tan primer and not yet painted in the Air Force’s colors.
Singapore announced its order of six A330 MRTTs in March 2014 to recapitalize its fleet of midair refueling tankers. The Air Force currently operates a fleet of four Boeing KC-135R Stratotankers, acquired and refurbished in 2000 from stored ex-U.S. Air Force airframes.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force also has about five of its 10 Lockheed Martin C-130B/H Hercules airlifters plumbed for the tanker role, although they are no longer used in this role, as the Air Force currently does not operate aircraft equipped for refueling by probe.
The first Air Force A330 MRTT will be delivered in what is known as the MRTT Enhanced configuration, featuring a package of aerodynamic improvements, structural modifications and avionics updates over the previous baseline military variant. France and South Korea will also be receiving their A330 MRTTs in this standard.
Mike Yeo defensenews

Indonesia puts KC-46A Pegasus, Airbus A330 MRTT on frame for aerial tanker requirement

The Indonesian Air Force (Tentara Nasional Indonesia – Angkatan Udara) has begun a study to expand the service’s aerial refuelling capabilities, with a view on establishing a formal acquisition programme for two airframes by 2024.
The aircraft types that are being compared in this study are the A330 multirole tanker-transport (MRTT) from Airbus, and what the Indonesians allude to as a militarised version of the Boeing 767 tanker, in reference to the KC-46A Pegasus.
Issues that will be scrutinised in the study include suitability for Indonesian operational requirements, compatibility of refuelling methods with the TNI-AU’s fleet of aircraft, interoperability with existing and future assets, and life-cycle costs.
Prior to June 2015, the TNI-AU operated a fleet of two pod-equipped KC-130Bs, which were delivered in the early 1960s. One of these aircraft crashed in Medan on 30 June of that year after developing engine troubles, and since then the TNI-AU has had to rely on a single airframe of the type for its aerial refueling needs.
janes

First A330 MRTT Phénix for France makes maiden flight

Airbus Defence and Space has successfully completed the maiden flight of the first A330 MRTT Multi Role Tanker Transport for France. The aircraft, which will be known in French service as Phénix, is the first of nine ordered by the French Defence Procurement Agency DGA, plus another three expected to be confirmed. It is the second new standard A330 MRTT to fly, featuring structural modifications, aerodynamic improvements giving a fuel-burn reduction of up to 1%, upgraded avionics computers and enhanced military systems. The aircraft was converted in Getafe from a standard A330 assembled in Toulouse. The crew reported that the aircraft performed in line with expectations during the 3h 25min flight. The Phénix fleet will be equipped with a combination of the Airbus Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) and underwing hose-and-drogue refuelling pods, and can carry 272 passengers or be configured for medical evacuation. First delivery is due in 2018. Fifty-one A330 MRTTs have been ordered by eight nations of which 28 have been delivered.
Photo: Pablo Cabellos / Airbus
airbus

Germany, Norway join European multinational MRTT program

NATO has taken an important step in improving its ability to refuel aircraft in mid-air, with two Allies joining a European programme to acquire and operate new tanker transport aircraft.
Defence Ministers from Germany and Norway joined a Memorandum of Understanding for a European multinational fleet of Airbus tanker transport aircraft, originally created by the lead-nation Netherlands and Luxembourg. The two countries launched the initiative in July 2016 by ordering two Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft, which are due to be delivered in 2020. With Germany and Norway joining the initiative, the fleet is expected to expand to up to seven aircraft.
This multinational fleet arrangement is a concrete step towards reducing the overall European shortage in air-to-air refueling and the over-reliance on U.S. capabilities. At today’s signing ceremony, Assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment Camille Grand stressed that “this initiative highlights the value of a multinational approach to capability development – working together provides cost-effective and flexible solutions.”
Belgium intends to join this programme in early 2018, and the initiative remains open to other new members. The procurement programme is another example of the increasingly close cooperation between NATO and the European Union.
nato

Singapore, France could Receive First Airbus MRTT in 2017

Airbus Defence and Space (DS) expects that the next new Airbus A330-200 Multirole Tanker Transport (MRTT) will be delivered to either the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) or the French Air Force.
"The next [MRTT] is either [for] Singapore or France," Fernando Alonso, Head of Military Aircraft at Airbus DS, told reporters in Kuala Lumpur in early August.
"Australia has bought two additional ones. Those are something quite special as they are second-hand ones," he added, referring to the two former Qantas-operated A330 airliners that are being converted into MRTT platforms by Airbus DS. However, he did not provide exact time frames for the deliveries.
defense-studies

Spain and Airbus Agree Temporary Reduction In A400M Acquisition

The Spanish air force has agreed with Airbus Defence & Space to acquire an initially reduced fleet of 14 A400M tactical transports until a funding solution can be found for the remaining 13 of the type Madrid has committed to buy.
14 A400Ms will be delivered to Spain by 2022 after which a decision will have to be made on how to proceed with the remainder of the acquisition – postponed until 2024.
The air force is struggling to fund the full acquisition and is in discussions with Airbus regarding its plans. Spain is contractually obliged to proceed with the full fleet, and a decision to reduce the buy or sell the remaining 13 aircraft to other customers would have to be agreed by the manufacturer and the Spanish government.
Despite this, Airbus says it “greatly welcomes” Spain’s decision to restructure the delivery schedule.
The first aircraft destined for Spain is due to be delivered in 2016, with its wings having arrived at the final assembly line in Seville in October, and under the new plans nine roll-on mission kits for the type will be provided that can be used on any of its 14 examples. That will include a defensive aids suite, satellite communications and in-flight refuelling pods.
Spain has also reafirmed plans to acquire three Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transports. A contract for these had been expected during 2015, but this is likely to be pushed back to next year, due to a general election in the nation on 20 December.
Meanwhile, a multi-mission capability for the Airbus C295s the Spanish air force already operates is being discussed by the air force and manufacturer. This could include maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, plus the ability to support special operations forces.
Spain operates a fleet of 13 C295s that are between seven and 14 years old. These could be reconfigured, or new examples acquired for the multi-mission role.
defense-aerospace

Germany reveals plan to join MRTT tanker effort

Germany has revealed plans to join the Multinational MRTT Fleet (MFF) alongside the Netherlands, Norway and Poland, to share a fleet of Airbus Defence & Space A330 multi-role tanker transports.
In 2014 the three other nations announced plans to share the burden of operating multirole tanker transports in Europe, and now Germany has decided that as its A310 tanker fleet ages, it will join the effort.
The nations involved are in the negotiation stage with Airbus regarding acquisition of the shared fleet, which had previously been touted as a buy of four of the type.
flightglobal

South Korea Will Boy Four A330MRTT, Rejecting Boeing Propposal

South Korea said on Tuesday it chose the Airbus A330 as in-flight refuelling tankers for its Air Foce.
Airbus' A330 MRTT beat Boeing Co's KC-46A and Israel Aerospace Industries' MMTT for the tender, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration said in a statement.
reuters

RAAF to get two more A330 MRTT KC-30

It appears likely that the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) is to acquire two more Airbus A330 MRTT to add to its current fleet of five, although no formal confirmation is yet available.
A brief comment to this effect - since removed - appeared on the website of the Spanish Embassy in Canberra on 25 June.
The acquisition of an additional two MRTTs (KC-30A in Australian service) was informally forecast by then defence minister David Johnston in August 2014.
janes