Saudi Arabia has placed an order for four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF), Airbus announced on July 10, 2024. This order enhances the RSAF’s existing fleet, reinforcing its air-to-air refueling and transport capabilities.
Delivery and Conversion Timeline
The newly ordered aircraft will begin conversion at the start of 2026, with an expected entry into service by 2027. These aircraft will be equipped to perform both refueling and transport missions. The contract also includes a comprehensive logistics support package, covering spare parts, training services, and ongoing service support for the new aircraft.
Customer Satisfaction and Operational Expansion
Jean-Brice Dumont, head of air power at Airbus Defence and Space, highlighted the significance of this order: “This new order demonstrates the high level of customer satisfaction with the A330 MRTT. This is the third contract signed by Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, making the RSAF one of the largest MRTT operators in the world.”
The RSAF currently operates six A330 MRTT aircraft, with the first delivery dating back to 2013. All RSAF A330 MRTTs feature hose-and-drogue pods, a boom system, and a refueling receptacle, allowing them to be refueled by other boom-equipped tankers.
Vision 2030 and Industrial Participation
In line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program, which aims to diversify the national economy, Airbus signed an industrial participation agreement with the Saudi General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) in January 2024. This agreement focuses on the development and expansion of the local industrial ecosystem. It includes technology transfer and the development of local companies, with SAAMS—a joint venture between Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and Airbus—acting as the primary vehicle for industrial localization.
Global Leadership in New-Generation Tankers
Airbus promotes the A330 MRTT as “the most capable new-generation tanker and transport aircraft,” boasting a 90% market share outside the United States. To date, Airbus has secured 82 orders for the A330 MRTT from 15 countries across Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania, underscoring its global leadership in this segment.
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