What is the military tanker and transport version of the Airbus A330 called?

The story behind the answer

The military tanker and transport version of the Airbus A330 is called the Airbus A330 MRTT.

MRTT stands for Multi Role Tanker Transport. Airbus developed the aircraft from the A330-200, retaining the wide-body airliner’s basic structure while adding military equipment for aerial refuelling, passenger transport, cargo carriage, and medical evacuation. It can refuel compatible aircraft through underwing pods and a centreline boom.

The A330 MRTT first flew in 2007 and entered service with the Royal Australian Air Force in 2011, where it is known as the KC-30A. Other operators include the United Kingdom, France, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, South Korea, and NATO’s Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet.

The aircraft is not simply a renamed A330neo. It is a military derivative of the earlier A330-200, modified with fuel-transfer systems, military avionics, and defensive or mission equipment as required by customers. Its large fuselage also allows it to move personnel and cargo when it is not conducting refuelling operations.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

Add question to a list

Choose a list to keep this question in: