Airbus has received an order from Saudi Arabia for four additional A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft. According to Jean-Brice Dumont, head of air power at Airbus Defence and Space, the new contract is the third the country has awarded on A330 MRTT units for the Royal Saudi Arabia Air Force, which is now set to become one of the largest MRTT operators worldwide.
The first of the new aircraft will begin a conversion process in 2026, equipping it with hose and drogue pods, a boom system and a refueling receptacle. It will enter RSAF service in 2027 to support air-to-air refueling and transport missions.
Besides the A330 delivery, Airbus will also provide a logistics support package that includes spare parts, training services and service support.
As part of the contract, Airbus signed an agreement with General Authority for Military Industries to transfer A330 MRTT technology to SAMI Airbus Aircraft Maintenance Services. SAAMS, a joint venture between Airbus and Saudi Arabian Military Industries, will be responsible for sharing the know-how with local companies.