Airbus has confirmed that the Royal Thai Air Force has ordered the A330 MRTT+, a neo-standard tanker based on the A330neo. The aircraft will feature both boom and probe-and-drogue refueling systems, a MEDEVAC kit, and a dedicated VVIP cabin. Deliveries are planned for 2029, enhancing Southeast Asia’s aerial refueling capacity and regional disaster-response capabilities.
The MRTT+ combines a widebody airframe with dual refueling systems, enabling transfer of up to 111 tonnes of fuel in a single sortie. It also provides intercontinental range, aeromedical evacuation for dozens of patients, and a VVIP cabin, making it both a strategic tanker and a versatile transport platform.
Built on the A330neo airframe with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the aircraft benefits from lower fuel consumption, higher hot-and-high performance, and reduced maintenance. Its maximum takeoff weight of 242 tonnes maximizes refueling efficiency while preserving cargo space.
The aircraft is equipped with a fully fly-by-wire Aerial Refueling Boom System and under-wing probe-and-drogue pods. The boom transfers around 3,600 kg per minute, while the pods deliver approximately 1,300 kg per minute. Thailand’s configuration includes automatic refueling aids, reducing workload during night or turbulent operations.
Mission systems integrate civil and military avionics, allowing flexible planning, receiver scheduling, and fuel management. Communications include secure UHF/VHF, SATCOM, and regional tactical data links. Defensive aids include radar-warning and missile-approach sensors with infrared countermeasures.
Cabin and cargo layout extend utility beyond refueling. Main deck seating accommodates up to 300 passengers, while lower holds support standard ULDs and NATO pallets. The aeromedical kit allows dozens of stretcher patients and medical teams onboard. A dedicated VVIP compartment supports sovereign mobility for Thailand’s leadership.
Thailand operates Saab Gripen C/Ds with probe refueling and F-16s using receptacles. The dual-system MRTT+ enables both aircraft types to refuel in the same sortie, reducing station time and tanker requirements. Its widebody design and fuel capacity also support long-range maritime patrols and extended regional operations.
The deal includes a partnership with Thai Aviation Industries for local heavy maintenance, component repair, and in-service support, enhancing mission readiness and sovereign technical capability. MRTT+ will serve both wartime and peacetime roles, strengthening the Royal Thai Air Force’s operational flexibility.
