Airbus unveils new-generation A330 tanker transport at Farnborough Airshow

Airbus unveiled a new version of its A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) based on the A330-800neo airliner at the Farnborough Airshow 2024. The aircraft, officially named the A330 MRTT+, will be powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines.

The new powerplant and an all-new wing design offer an 8 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the current MRTT model, which is based on the A330-200. Although the fuel load remains unchanged at 111 tonnes, the increased efficiency translates to enhanced fuel offload capacity and improved range. Airbus asserts that the MRTT+ will have a 41 percent range advantage over Boeing's KC-46A Pegasus.

Parts commonality between the existing MRTT and the new MRTT+ is approximately 95 percent, negating the need for a dedicated trials aircraft. According to Airbus, computer modeling indicates that the new wing will allow wing-mounted refueling pods to maintain their performance levels. Flight trials will be conducted using a customer aircraft, with market demand determining when the first MRTT+ will take flight. The full launch of the program is expected to coincide with securing initial orders.