A330 MRTT is not only a Tanker but it’s a multi-role machine, claims Anil Gupta of Airbus Defence & Space, India operations. Airbus Defence & Space is the new brand which has been created out of the merger of Cassidian, Airbus Military and Astrium.

It is further claimed that the A330 MRTT is the most capable Tanker/Transporter currently available as of today. A330 can perform simultaneously three different types of missions:

• Aerial refuelling (tanker role), passenger and/or
• Freight transport, and/or
• Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).

Also, its tank capacity is sufficient enough to supply the required fuel volume thereby no need of additional reserves. The company claims that there is no major structural modification required to carry more passengers and more freight. Hence the aircraft stands out above than any of its competitors.

Key elements

A330 MRTT inherit the up-to-date design and manufacturing technologies, and integrates the most advanced avionics as well as the proven fly-by-wire control systems which allow total flight envelope protection (when in normal control law) featured by the basic A330-200. This means higher reliability as well as lower crew workload, and enabling concentration on mission execution.

The A330 MRTT is offered with a customised suite of military avionics and a mission system integrated with civil avionics. A comprehensive survivability package including a Defensive Aid System (DAS), fuel tank inerting system and an armoured cockpit are all available.

Representing state-of-the-art in its category, the A330-200 has a range of up to 8,000 nm/14,800 km, with a maximum speed of Mach 0.86. It is the primary choice as a platform for a Multi-Role Tanker Transport, offering the best performance at the lowest investment and costs. It provides the best value for money, with potential for long-term growth as confirmed by its continuing successes in the market.