Spain’s Air and Space Force has officially introduced its first Airbus A330 MRTT (Multi-Role Tanker Transport) into service. This aircraft is the first of three multi-mission tankers and transport planes purchased by the Spanish Ministry of Defence in November 2021. The A330 MRTT will be based at Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base in Madrid, Spain, and was delivered from the Airbus facility in Getafe, Madrid, which specializes in aircraft conversions.
Jean-Brice Dumont, head of air power at Airbus Defence and Space, stated, “With the entry into service of the first A330 MRTT, the Spanish Air and Space Force now possesses the world’s top tanker aircraft in its fleet.” He added that the MRTT will not only improve Spain’s ability to work alongside allied nations but will also provide strategic independence. Furthermore, it will enhance capabilities for aerial evacuation and in-flight refueling.
The Airbus A330 MRTT is equipped with a modern hose-and-basket refueling system, allowing it to fly for more than 18 hours with a range of up to 16,000 kilometers. The A330 MRTT stands out as the only new-generation tanker and strategic airlifter currently in operation. It has a large fuel capacity of 111 tonnes, enabling it to conduct aerial refueling missions without requiring additional fuel tanks.
In addition to its refueling capabilities, the A330 MRTT features a spacious wide-body fuselage, allowing it to carry up to 300 troops or a cargo load of 45 tonnes (99,000 pounds). The aircraft can also be fitted with a Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) kit, which includes stretcher modules and intensive-care stations.
The second and third A330 MRTTs for Spain are currently undergoing conversion at Airbus’s Getafe facility in Madrid. The 45th Wing of the Spanish Air and Space Force has already utilized unconverted A330s for missions such as transporting military personnel and equipment. These include the Pacific Skies exercise in 2024 and evacuations of Spanish nationals from Niger and Sudan.
