NATO Expands Multinational Tanker Fleet with Additional Airbus A330 Aircraft

NATO has expanded its multinational tanker fleet with the addition of two more Airbus A330 aircraft, bringing the total to 12. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency made the order, which will enable the alliance to maintain its aerial refueling capabilities. The A330 MRTT is a multi-role tanker transport aircraft that provides air-to-air refueling and transport capabilities.

NATO has expanded its multinational tanker fleet with the addition of two more Airbus A330 aircraft, bringing the total to 12. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) made the order, which will enable the alliance to maintain its aerial refueling capabilities. The A330 MRTT is a multi-role tanker transport aircraft that provides air-to-air refueling and transport capabilities.

The order, signed in June 2025, includes the delivery of two additional A330 MRTT aircraft in 2028 and 2029, respectively. This expansion coincides with the formal accession of Sweden and Denmark to the Multinational MRTT Fleet (MMF) programme, further strengthening European strategic autonomy and collaborative defense capabilities.

The A330 MRTT is a state-of-the-art aircraft that seamlessly integrates air-to-air refueling, strategic airlift, and medical evacuation capabilities. With a fuel capacity of up to 111 tonnes, it can conduct long-range missions, supporting NATO operations across Europe and beyond. Its wide-body fuselage enables it to transport up to 300 troops or a payload of up to 45 tonnes. Additionally, the aircraft can be configured with a dedicated Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) kit that can accommodate stretchers and intensive-care stations.

The MMF programme allows participating nations the exclusive right to operate the NATO-owned aircraft in a pooling arrangement providing commonality, interoperability, and cost efficiency. Funded by the Netherlands, Luxembourg, with the progressive incorporation of Norway, Germany, Belgium, and the Czech Republic, the MMF programme exemplifies European operational defense collaboration.

"The expansion of the Multinational MRTT Fleet with two additional aircraft and the addition of Sweden and Denmark to the programme underscores Europe’s commitment to collective defense and strategic autonomy," said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. "Airbus is proud to contribute to this effort by delivering state-of-the-art A330 MRTTs produced and converted in our Toulouse and Getafe facilities. This collaboration exemplifies how European industry can respond effectively to evolving security challenges through innovation and cooperation."

The two additional aircraft will be delivered in 2028 and 2029, coinciding with the formal accession of Sweden and Denmark to the MMF programme. This expansion will further enhance the flexibility and reach of the MMF fleet across the continent.

References:
[1] https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/nato-order-will-boost-pooled-a330-tanker-fleet-to-12-jets/163558.article
[2] https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/national/25264457.nato-chief-praises-trump-making-europe-pay-big-way-defence/
[3] https://www.airbus.com/en/newsroom/press-release/2025-06-nato-orders-two-additional-airbus-a330-mrtt-aircraft-and-welcomes