Airbus A330 MRTT Enters Service with the Spanish Air and Space Force
Getafe, Spain – April 11, 2025 – A significant milestone was achieved for the Spanish Air and Space Force as the first Airbus A330 MRTT (Multi-Role Tanker Transport) has officially entered service with the 45th Wing. This advanced aircraft marks a major enhancement in aerial refuelling and transport capabilities for Spain, and it is part of a larger acquisition of three aircraft made by the Spanish Ministry of Defence in November 2021.
The A330 MRTT: A Versatile Asset
Delivered from the Airbus facilities in Getafe, Madrid—the site of the A330 MRTT aircraft conversion center—this strategically important aircraft will operate from Torrejón de Ardoz Air Base, located just outside the Spanish capital. The A330 MRTT is designed to be multi-mission capable, bridging both in-flight refuelling and strategic airlift roles with ease.
Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, remarked, “With the entry into service of this first A330 MRTT, the Spanish Air and Space Force now has the world’s best tanker aircraft in its fleet.” This powerful endorsement speaks to the aircraft’s advanced features and operational flexibility, which are paramount for enhancing Spain’s defensive and humanitarian capabilities.
Advanced Refuelling Technology
Equipped with a state-of-the-art, hose-and-basket refuelling system, the A330 MRTT boasts an impressive endurance of over 18 flight hours and a range of 16,000 kilometers. This technological superiority allows the aircraft to perform air refuelling missions efficiently, ensuring seamless support for both national defense and international operations.
The A330 MRTT is the only new-generation tanker and strategic airlifter currently in active service, making it a crucial asset for allied operations. Its large fuel capacity of 111 tonnes means that it can conduct extensive refuelling missions without requiring additional fuel tanks, allowing for increased operational efficiency.
Multifunctional Capabilities
The versatility of the A330 MRTT goes beyond its refuelling capabilities. The aircraft’s wide-body fuselage allows it to function as a robust transport platform, with the capacity to carry up to 300 troops or a payload of up to 45 tonnes (99,000 lb). This flexibility makes the A330 MRTT indispensable for various missions, from troop transport to logistical support.
One of the standout features of the aircraft is its capability for Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC). With specialized configurations that include dedicated Medical Evacuation kits, the A330 MRTT can be equipped with multiple stretcher modules and intensive-care medical stations. This ensures that the aircraft is well-prepared to respond to emergencies and humanitarian needs.
Ongoing Expansion of the Fleet
The Spanish Air and Space Force is set to further enhance its capabilities with the delivery of two additional A330 MRTTs, which are currently undergoing conversion at the same Getafe facility. These aircraft will extend the operational reach and versatility of the 45th Wing, allowing for comprehensive support across various missions.
Interestingly, the 45th Wing has already begun to utilize unconverted A330s for military logistics, such as the transportation of personnel and equipment during the Pacific Skies exercise in 2024. They have also played a critical role in recent evacuation operations for Spanish nationals from Niger and Sudan, highlighting the aircraft’s potential even before its conversion.
Future Prospects
The integration of the Airbus A330 MRTT into the Spanish Air and Space Force signals a step forward in modernizing Spain’s military capabilities. With its cutting-edge technology and multifunctional design, the A330 MRTT is not only set to bolster Spain’s defense strategy but also enhance interoperability with allied nations, contributing to strategic autonomy and operational readiness.
As Spain embraces this new era of aerial capability with the A330 MRTT, the implications for both national security and humanitarian assistance cannot be overstated.
Photo courtesy of Airbus
