Saudi Arabia Bolsters Air Power with Addition of Four Airbus A330 MRTTs
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has ordered four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) airplanes for the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF).
The first aircraft from this batch are set to begin their modification process in early 2026; they are expected to become operational and integrated into the RSAF by 2027 for air-to-air refueling and transport missions.
“This latest procurement signifies the outstanding level of client satisfaction with the A330 MRTT,” remarked Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. “This is the third contract established by Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, positioning the RSAF as one of the foremost MRTT operators worldwide.”
The contract also includes an extensive logistics support package, featuring spare components, training resources, and operational assistance for the new fleet of aircraft.
All RSAF A330 MRTT models are outfitted with hose and drogue configurations, boom systems, and refueling inlets, which enable the A330 MRTT to receive fuel from boom-equipped tankers.
Joint Industrial Collaboration
Along with this contract, Airbus entered into an Industrial Participation (IP) agreement with GAMI (General Authority for Military Industries) in January 2024, aimed at advancing and enhancing the industrial framework in the area in alignment with Vision 2030, a Saudi government initiative concentrating on economic diversification.
This agreement also involves the transfer of technology and know-how related to the RSAF A330 MRTT to local businesses. SAAMS, the joint venture formed between SAMI (Saudi Arabian Military Industries) and Airbus, will act as the primary conduit for industrial localization.
The A330 MRTT distinguishes itself as the most sophisticated new-generation tanker and transport aircraft, capturing a 90% market share outside the USA, with 82 orders secured from 15 nations spanning Europe, Asia, America, and Oceania.
