Airbus Chosen for Next-Gen Upgrade of Royal Australian Air Force MRTT Communication Systems
Airbus has been awarded a significant contract by the Commonwealth of Australia (CoA) to upgrade the Communications and Mission Systems for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) fleet.
This comprehensive scope aims to enhance Air Force interoperability with new operational requirements. The project primarily focuses on a retrofit package that introduces advanced Communication Capabilities and Enhanced Mission Systems, elevating the aircraft to the latest A330 MRTT standard.
The undertaking is divided into two phases. In Phase 1, Airbus will handle design, systems development, and integration, leading to the Critical Design Review (CDR) maturity gate. Phase 2 involves the installation and delivery of a prototype KC-30 aircraft (the RAAF designation for the A330 MRTT) to facilitate certification and qualification. Final modifications for the entire fleet will subsequently fall under customer responsibility.
Additionally, Airbus will supply data packs and support, ensuring the upgrades are integrated into the existing RAAF A330 MRTT Full Flight Simulator (FFS), Integrated Procedures Trainer (IPT), and Remote Air Refueling Operator (RARO) Console Part Task Trainer (PTT).
The primary goal of this modernization is to deliver a cost-effective solution that upgrades the RAAF KC-30A fleet to Airbus’ exceptional quality standards. This not only aligns with the latest interoperability requirements for the Australian Defence Force but also enhances capabilities with allied forces.
The KC-30A MRTT features two advanced air-to-air refueling systems: an Advanced Refueling Boom System at the tail and all-electric refueling hose-and-drogue pods beneath each wing. These systems are operated by an Air Refueling Operator in the cockpit, who can monitor the refueling process through 2D and 3D displays. The KC-30A has a fuel capacity of 111 tonnes, enabling it to transfer fuel to compatible aircraft, including other KC-30As.
Derived from the successful A330-200 commercial aircraft, which has over 1,700 units in operation globally, the A330 MRTT combines cutting-edge tanker technology with extensive operational experience gained over more than 200,000 flight hours.
Currently, the A330 MRTT holds 61 total orders with 45 aircraft already delivered and actively in service.
