First Spanish Air Force A330-200 is delivered

The first of three Airbus A330-200 (local Spanish designation T-24) aircraft ordered by the Ejército del Aire (Spanish Air Force) was delivered on November 30.

The aircraft arrived at Torrejón Air Base near Madrid, Spain, in standard A330-200 passenger configuration to join the resident 45° Gruppo/Escuadron 452. In 2024, it will undergo conversion into multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) conversion at the Airbus Defence and Space facilities in Getafe, Spain.

A330MRTT
The first of three Airbus A330-200 (T-24) for the Spanish Air Force arrived at Torrejón Air Base near Madrid, Spain on November 30. Ejército del Aire

Following the conversion, the MRTT will be designated as a TK-24 and perform aerial refueling missions for the Spanish and allied forces. The first TK-24 configured A330 is due to be handed over to the Spanish Air Force in 2023 and the third in 2025. Prior to MRTT conversion, the first aircraft will be capable of carrying 288 passengers and 35 tons of cargo. It will also have a medical evacuation capability.

Airbus had announced a contract for MRTT conversion of the three aircraft (all previously operated by national airline Iberia) on November 12. The contract includes spares, ground support equipment, training and in service support for the duration of the contract.