The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has announced a strategic acquisition of an Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport Plus (MRTT+), representing the latest advancement in aerial refueling and transport capabilities. This sophisticated aircraft is designed to enhance the RTAF’s operational capabilities with features that include both hose-and-drogue and boom refueling systems, a VVIP cabin, and a medical evacuation kit aimed at facilitating rapid responses in complex operational environments.
The military conversion of this aircraft is slated to begin at the A330 MRTT Centre located in Getafe, Spain, in 2026. Following this conversion, the aircraft is anticipated to be delivered to Bangkok by 2029.
The A330 MRTT+, unveiled in 2024, boasts several significant enhancements over its predecessor, the A330 MRTT. It draws on advancements from the A330-800 commercial airliner, including the installation of Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, optimized aerodynamics, and wingtip modifications. These improvements collectively contribute to a reduction in fuel consumption by as much as 8 percent and a decrease in noise levels, thereby positioning the MRTT+ as an environmentally-conscious option for aerial operations.
The aircraft’s maximum take-off weight is increased to 242 tonnes (533,519 pounds), which subsequently enhances its range, fuel offload capacity, and overall operational flexibility. The design maintains 95 percent of the existing airframe specification of the A330 MRTT fleet, ensuring that crews can benefit from standardized training protocols while also gaining access to Airbus’s extensive global maintenance network.
In terms of functionality, the MRTT+ is capable of refueling more than 25 different aircraft types and dominates over 90 percent of the global market share outside the United States. Once operational, the new tanker transport will play a crucial role in supporting the RTAF’s missions, including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and medical evacuations, along with various other operational tasks.
Airbus Defence and Space’s Jean-Brice Dumont commented on Thailand’s decision, emphasizing the confidence shown in the A330 MRTT+ platform. He highlighted its advancements in efficiency, capability, and sustainability, marking it as a pivotal asset for the Royal Thai Air Force.
In parallel to this aircraft order, Airbus plans to expand its collaboration with Thailand’s state-owned Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) to provide local maintenance support for the incoming MRTT+. This partnership aims to strengthen the capacities of the local aerospace industry in line with the Southeast Asian government’s “Make in Thailand” policy, which seeks to enhance domestic industrial capabilities and reduce dependency on international supply chains.
Airbus and TAI have previously laid the groundwork for collaboration in support of the RTAF’s C295 transport aircraft. Additionally, TAI’s role has expanded recently with the RTAF’s acquisition of two more H225 multirole helicopters, highlighting the ongoing commitment to strengthening Thailand’s aviation capabilities.
Dumont reaffirmed Airbus’s dedication to sharing knowledge, skills, and technological advancements with TAI, ensuring that the A330 MRTT+ will be sustainably maintained within Thailand. This effort is aimed at bolstering the nation’s defense ecosystem and supporting broader industrial growth within the country.
