Spain’s A330 MRTT Milestone
**Spain has officially welcomed its first A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) aircraft into its fleet. On April 11, 2025, the Spanish Air and Space Force took delivery of this important aircraft at the 45th Squadron stationed at Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base, located near Madrid. The delivery was made from the Airbus facility in Getafe, marking a significant moment in Spain’s defense capabilities.**
This aircraft represents the first of three A330 MRTTs purchased by the Spanish Ministry of Defense back in November 2021. Two additional units are currently undergoing transformation and are projected to be operational by 2025 and 2026. The decision to procure the A330 MRTT was publicized in 2014 when Spain requested to modify part of its A400M order into A330 models.
Timeline of A330 MRTT Development
The economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic led Spain to purchase three retired A330-200 passenger jets in 2020, earmarked for conversion into tanker aircraft. As reported by Army Recognition, the third aircraft went directly to the Getafe facility for adjustments, while the other two were temporarily utilized in their original passenger configurations for military air transport tasks, such as evacuations from Niger and Sudan.
The first of the converted aircraft commenced test flights in January 2024, and Spain has structured the delivery schedule to guarantee that at least two aircraft will remain operational at all times.
Global Demand for A330 MRTTs
As of March 31, 2025, approximately 76 A330 MRTTs have been ordered across around 15 nations, with 64 of those already delivered. Notable operators include Australia, Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, and NATO’s Multinational MRTT Fleet, which includes Germany, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway, Belgium, and the Czech Republic.
Denmark recently confirmed its plans to join the MMF, further expanding the coalition. In addition to these nations, Brazil has also committed to acquiring two A330 aircraft for conversion, while Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense secured a contract for the A330 MRTT as part of its defense procurement initiatives.
Interest from Other Nations
Egypt and India have likewise indicated interest in the MRTT as they navigate ongoing tender processes. This growing global interest underscores the A330 MRTT’s value as a versatile military asset.
The A330 MRTT is a military adaptation of the Airbus A330-200 commercial passenger aircraft, uniquely designed for both strategic transport and aerial refueling. With Spanish approval granted in 2010, the MRTT has been operational, starting with the Royal Australian Air Force in June 2011.
Advanced Capabilities of the A330 MRTT
The A330 MRTT features design enhancements and operational insights drawn from previous Airbus tanker projects, such as the A310 MRTT. The aircraft supports a broad spectrum of refueling operations and is fully compatible with various receiver types used by NATO and allied forces.
Since its entry into service, the A330 MRTT has logged over 310,000 flight hours, including 270,000 hours specifically dedicated to aerial refueling missions. Its impressive fuel capacity of 111,000 kilograms is stored within the aircraft’s standard tanks, eliminating the need for additional tanks in the lower deck.
Refueling Systems and Technology
The aircraft is equipped with a variety of advanced refueling systems, notably the Airbus Air-to-Air Refueling Boom System (ARBS), which offers a flow rate of 3,600 kg/min (1,200 US gal/min). Furthermore, it includes Cobham 905E underwing hose and drogue pods achieving a flow rate of 1,300 kg/min (420 US gal/min), along with a Cobham 805E Body Fuel Receiver Unit (FRU) capable of 1,800 kg/min (600 US gal/min).
Additionally, the A330 MRTT is outfitted with the Universal Air Refueling Receptacle Slipway Installation (UARRSI), allowing it to receive fuel mid-flight. Enhanced Vision Systems (EVS) provide a comprehensive 270° field of view with high-resolution 2D/3D digital imaging to facilitate refueling operations, regardless of weather conditions or nighttime.
Future Developments in Spain’s Defense Strategy
In a related development, Spain is also placing an additional order for Eurofighters, further solidifying its commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities.
With the acquisition of the A330 MRTT and the continuous evolution of its air fleet, Spain is poised to strengthen its operational readiness and support for various military initiatives in the coming years.
