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The Royal Thai Air Force has become the first customer for the Airbus A330 MRTT+, an aerial refueling and transport aircraft based on the Airbus A330neo. The order includes one aircraft equipped with both boom and hose-and-drogue refueling systems, a medical evacuation kit, and a VIP cabin. Production of military conversions began in 2026 at Airbus' Getafe facility in Spain, with delivery to Thailand expected in 2029.
The new MRTT+ is powered by Trent 7000 engines and features aerodynamic modifications, including winglets, which contribute to an 8% reduction in fuel consumption compared to previous models. The aircraft also has a maximum takeoff weight of 242 tons, allowing for greater range and fuel offload capacity. According to Airbus, about 95% of the components are common with existing MRTT models, which will simplify training and maintenance for operators.
Airbus reports that it has received a total of 85 orders for its A330 MRTT from 11 customers worldwide, securing more than a 90% market share outside the United States. The company’s partnership with Thai Aviation Industries was expanded through a Memorandum of Understanding, furthering its engagement with Thailand’s defense sector.
