The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has placed an order for the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport Plus (MRTT+), marking a major step in enhancing the Kingdom’s aerial refueling, transport, and humanitarian response capabilities. The new-generation tanker, based on the Airbus A330neo, combines proven performance with improved efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability.
Advanced Features and Configurations
The A330 MRTT+ ordered by Thailand will be equipped with both the hose-and-drogue and boom refueling systems, enabling compatibility with a wide range of allied aircraft. It will also feature Airbus’ Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) kit solution and a VVIP cabin configuration.
The aircraft is scheduled to undergo military conversion at Airbus’ A330 MRTT Centre in Getafe, Spain, starting in 2026, with final delivery planned for 2029.
“Thailand’s selection of the A330 MRTT+ underlines the trust placed in this platform, while embracing the next evolution in efficiency, capability and sustainability,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. “This natural evolution of the A330 MRTT, which will be a key asset for the Royal Thai Air Force operations, builds on its proven performance over the past years in service with nine customers all over the world, accumulating more than 340,000 flight hours.”
Strengthening National Defence and Humanitarian Response
The acquisition of the A330 MRTT+ represents a strategic enhancement of Thailand’s national defence posture. Beyond strengthening sovereignty protection, the aircraft will play a critical role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and MEDEVAC operations, providing the RTAF with versatile mission capability during crises.
Launched at the 2024 Farnborough Airshow, the A330 MRTT+ incorporates innovations from the A330-800 airliner, including Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, optimised aerodynamics, and new wingtips. These improvements reduce fuel burn by up to 8% while lowering noise emissions. The aircraft also benefits from an increased maximum take-off weight of 242 tonnes, which extends range, increases fuel offload capacity, and enhances operational flexibility.
Proven Platform with Global Reach
With 95% airframe commonality to the current A330 MRTT, the MRTT+ benefits from established training systems and a strong global support network. The A330 MRTT is cleared to refuel more than 25 aircraft types and commands over 90% of the market share outside the U.S. To date, 85 aircraft have been ordered by 11 customers, including Australia, France, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.
Expanding Local Industrial Cooperation
In parallel with the new order, Airbus signed an expanded Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thai Aviation Industries (TAI). The agreement includes in-country maintenance support for the RTAF’s future A330 MRTT+, building on existing collaboration for the sustainment of Thailand’s C295 transport aircraft.
“Through our partnership with TAI, Airbus is committed to transferring skills, know-how, and technology to further develop aerospace capabilities in Thailand,” Dumont added. “This expanded MoU ensures that the RTAF’s A330 MRTT+ will be maintained in-country, while reinforcing our contribution to Thailand’s defence ecosystem and industrial growth.”
