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Spain's introduction of the A330 MRTT closes the strategic refueling capability gap which was left open with the retirement of the Boeing KC-707 back in 2016.
Credit: Airbus Defense and Space
The Spanish Air Force has taken delivery of it first Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) conversion of the Airbus A330.
The first of three MRTT aircraft, to be converted from ex-Iberia A330-200s, was formally handed over to the service on April 11 in a ceremony at Airbus’ facility in Getafe near Madrid, where the MRTT conversion line is located.
Spain opted for a wing-mounted hose/drogue unit-only conversion of the MRTT, but the aircraft has been wired and equipped with elements of the boom system should Spain want to install a boom in the future. This explains the large fairing on the rear fuselage where the boom would be fitted.
The Spanish Air Force currently operates probe-equipped fighters such as the Eurofighter and the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet but is expected to invest in the Lockheed Martin F-35A Joint Strike fighter to replace part of the Hornet fleet. Such an acquisition would then require the fitment of a refueling boom. Adding a boom also would help address a wider European shortage of boom-equipped tankers. The other two aircraft are now undergoing conversion by Airbus in Getafe and will be ready in 2026.
The introduction of the A330 MRTT closes the strategic refueling capability gap that was left open with the retirement of the Boeing KC-707 back in 2016. Spain is currently providing aerial refueling capability with its A400M airlifters.
Spain’s Defense Secretary Amparo Valcarce hailed the new tankers as “a contribution to the European pillar of defense, to the European pillar of NATO. An aircraft that gives us the confidence to live up to our commitments.”
The force will also use the MRTT for carrying troops on deployment. The aircraft can also be configured for medical evacuation, with fitted stretcher modules and intensive care stations.
“The MRTT will not only provide interoperability with allied nations and strategic autonomy, but will also significantly increase projection, aerial evacuation and in-flight refueling capabilities,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, head of Air Power at Airbus Defense and Space.
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