Airbus A330-243 MRTT

The Airbus A330‑243 MRTT is a military variant of the civilian A330‑200, developed by Airbus SAS to meet the growing demand for aerial refuelling and strategic transport. First introduced in 2009, the aircraft entered service with the Royal Air Force as the Voyager in 2011 and has since been adopted by dozens of air forces worldwide, including France, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. Based on the A330‑200’s wide‑body airframe, the MRTT retains the aircraft’s long‑range efficiency, a 60‑minute turnaround, and a maximum take‑off weight of 233 tonnes. Its defining feature is the advanced Airbus Multi‑Role Tanker Transport system, which integrates a centre‑line hose‑and‑drogue pod and under‑wing refuelling pods, enabling simultaneous refuelling of up to four receiver aircraft. The cabin can be rapidly re‑configured for passenger transport, medical evacuation, or cargo, with a payload capacity of about 45 t. Modern avionics, fly‑by‑wire controls, and the latest engine technology provide superior fuel economy and reduced emissions. The A330‑243 MRTT has become a cornerstone of NATO’s air‑mobility strategy, enhancing operational reach, force projection, and humanitarian response capabilities across the globe. Its versatility and reliability continue to shape modern air‑refueling doctrines and reinforce allied interoperability.

Airbus SAS

Airbus A330-243 MRTT

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Design & Classification