DefenseRoyal Thai Air Force orders first Airbus A330 MRTT+ tanker
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has placed an order for a single Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport Plus (MRTT+), becoming the launch customer of the new-generation aerial tanker derived from the A330-800neo variant.
According to Airbus, the A330 MRTT+ is an evolution of the well-established MRTT platform, offering both aerial refueling and transport capabilities. The company states that the new model will be fitted with both hose-and-drogue and boom refueling systems, supporting a wider range of receiver aircraft.
The MRTT+ ordered by the RTAF will feature a VVIP cabin configuration and a medical evacuation kit, expanding its operational scope. Airbus indicates that the conversion to military standards will take place at its A330 MRTT Center in Getafe, Spain, starting in 2026, with final delivery scheduled for 2029.
The A330 MRTT+ will have a maximum takeoff weight of 242 tons and will feature lower fuel emissions compared to previous models. The airframe is said to retain 95% commonality with the existing A330 MRTT fleet, which, according to the manufacturer, should simplify training and maintenance.
Airbus has reported that the MRTT family holds over 90% market share for tanker aircraft outside the United States, with 85 aircraft ordered by 11 customers so far. The company also signed an expanded Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) to support local maintenance of the MRTT+ in Thailand.
The RTAF’s acquisition of the MRTT+ is expected to reinforce its aerial refueling and transport capacities. The collaboration between Airbus and TAI aims to facilitate maintenance operations once the aircraft enters service at the end of the decade.
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