The Spanish Ministry of Defence has signed a formal order for the acquisition of three Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft (MRTT).
Included in the agreement is the handover of Spain’s first aircraft which is scheduled in the upcoming days. The aircraft will be delivered in transport configuration and will be converted to MRTT configuration in 2024. The handover of the first fully MRTT configured aircraft is scheduled for 2023 and the third is to be delivered by 2025.
Signed between the Spanish Ministry of Defence and Airbus, the contract includes spares, ground support equipment, training and in service support throughout the entire duration of the contract.
The aircraft will be acquired from Spanish flag carrier airline, Iberia. The aircraft will be converted into MRTTs at Airbus’ Spanish headquarters in Getafe, Spain and equipped with a hose and drogue refuelling system. The MRTTs will also be medevac capable.
After delivery, the A330 MRTT fleet will be operated by the Grupo 45/Wing 45 of the Ejército del Aire/Spanish Air Force at Torrejón Air Base in the Spanish capital, Madrid. The unit currently operates the Falcon 900B and A310-304 for transport services.
Jean-Brice Dumont, executive vice president Military Aircraft at Airbus said: “With the addition of A330 MRTT to its fleet, the Spanish Air Force acquires a key and proven new capability, that will enhance and support overseas operations, as well as medevac missions, on which the aircraft played a key role during the Covid-19 pandemic crisis worldwide.”
