Saudi Arabia Airbus 1330 MRTT: Getafe, Spain – July 11, 2024- The Royal Saudi Arabia Air Force (RSAF) has significantly bolstered its aerial refueling and transport capabilities by ordering four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. This marks the third contract between Airbus and Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, solidifying the RSAF’s position as a leading operator of this versatile aircraft globally.
The first of the newly ordered A330 MRTTs will begin conversion in early 2026, with all four expected to enter service by 2027. These aircraft will play a critical role in extending the reach and operational flexibility of the RSAF by providing air-to-air refueling for fighter jets and other military aircraft, along with cargo transport capabilities.
“This new order demonstrates the high level of customer satisfaction with the A330 MRTT,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. “We are proud to continue our partnership with the RSAF and support their strategic vision.”
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The agreement extends beyond the delivery of the aircraft, encompassing a comprehensive logistics support package. This includes the provision of spare parts, training services, and ongoing maintenance support for all four A330 MRTTs.
Furthermore, all the A330 MRTTs operated by the RSAF will be equipped with a versatile refueling system. This includes hose and drogue pods, a boom system, and a refueling receptacle. The receptacle allows the A330 MRTT to be refueled itself from boom-equipped tankers, ensuring extended range and operational endurance.
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Industrial Cooperation and Technology Transfer
This procurement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national transformation program focused on economic diversification. As part of the contract, Airbus signed an Industrial Participation (IP) agreement with the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in January 2024. This initiative aims to foster the growth of a robust domestic industrial ecosystem to support the A330 MRTT program.
The IP agreement includes the transfer of technology and know-how related to the A330 MRTT to Saudi Arabian companies. SAAMS, a joint venture between Airbus and Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), will play a key role in facilitating this technology transfer and driving local industrial participation.
The Airbus A330 MRTT is a next-generation leader in the tanker and transport aircraft category. With a dominant 90% market share outside the United States, the A330 MRTT has garnered 82 orders from 15 countries across Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania. This latest acquisition by Saudi Arabia further underscores the aircraft’s global reputation for exceptional performance and versatility.
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