The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has strengthened its national defence capability by ordering Airbus’s new generation Multi Role Tanker Transport Plus (MRTT+) aircraft. Based on the A330neo, this advanced aircraft stands out with its air-to-air refuelling, transport, medical evacuation, and VVIP configuration features.
By ordering the Airbus A330 MRTT+, the Royal Thai Air Force significantly enhances its strategic air power. As the next-generation evolution of Airbus’s combat-proven A330 MRTT platform, the MRTT+ will be equipped with both hose-and-drogue and boom systems. In addition, the aircraft will include the Airbus Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) kit and a VVIP cabin configuration.
The next-generation MRTT+ will undergo military conversion in 2026 at the A330 MRTT Centre in Getafe, Spain, and will be delivered to the RTAF in 2029.
Statement from Airbus
Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Military Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, said:
“Thailand’s selection of the A330 MRTT+ is a strong demonstration of confidence in this platform. The MRTT+ delivers a new evolution in efficiency, capability, and sustainability. This aircraft will create significant strategic value for the RTAF, building on proven performance with over 340,000 flight hours worldwide in recent years.”
Contribution to the Kingdom’s Defence Power
While strengthening Thailand’s national defence capacity, the new MRTT+ will also play a critical role in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief (HADR), and medical evacuation operations.
More Efficient, More Powerful
Unveiled at the 2024 Farnborough Airshow, the A330 MRTT+ features:
- Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines,
- optimised aerodynamics,
and new-generation wing tips, providing up to 8% fuel savings and reduced noise.
Its maximum take-off weight has been increased from 233 to 242 tonnes, enabling longer range and greater operational flexibility.
Global Experience, Local Cooperation
With 95% airframe commonality with the current A330 MRTT fleet, the MRTT+ offers joint training opportunities and the advantage of a global maintenance network. The A330 MRTT already holds more than 90% of the non-US market, with 85 aircraft ordered by 11 customers including Australia, France, NATO MMF, South Korea, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
With this new order, Airbus has also expanded its cooperation with Thai Aviation Industries (TAI). Under the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), maintenance support for the RTAF’s A330 MRTT+ will be provided within Thailand. In line with the Kingdom’s “Made in Thailand” policy, Airbus aims to strengthen technology transfer, local capability development, and defence industry cooperation.
Jean-Brice Dumont added, “Through this agreement signed with TAI, we are committed to further developing aviation capabilities in Thailand and contributing to the country’s defence ecosystem.”
