The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has signed a deal to acquire four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF). This is the third contract between Airbus and Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, solidifying the RSAF’s position as one of the world’s leading MRTT operators.
The first of these new aircraft will begin conversion in early 2026 and is expected to enter service in 2027. These planes will significantly enhance the RSAF’s air-to-air refueling and transport capabilities taking the total number of Airbus tankers to 10.
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Furthermore, this deal also holds significance in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national program aimed at diversifying the economy with the inauguration of modern technologies. In January 2024, Saudi Arabia and Airbus signed an Industrial Participation agreement for the development of an advanced aviation industry in the region. The agreement facilitates technology transfer and knowledge sharing related to the RSAF’s A330 MRTT fleet to local companies, strengthening the Saudi industry.
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“This new order demonstrates the high level of satisfaction our customers have with the A330 MRTT,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. The contract goes beyond just the aircraft, including a comprehensive logistics support package with spare parts, training, and ongoing service support for all four planes.
The A330 MRTT advanced multi mission aircraft holds a remarkable 90% market share outside the United States. With 82 orders from 15 countries across continents, the Royal Saudi Air Force’s (RSAF’s) decision to procure more Airbus tankers in its fleet makes perfect sense.
