2024 07 23 152039
Airbus is looking at upgrading its popular MRTT program based on the A330-200 to the newer platform A330neo. That program, the MRTT+, would provide the advantage of the next generation of engines and fuel economy to improve the aircraft’s performance and capabilities. Airbus defense chief, Michael Scheollhorn stated in an interview that Airbus will likely launch the upgraded version of its tanker by year-end.
The A330neo is powered by the Rolls Royce Trent 7000, without the choice of engines from Pratt & Whitney, GE, and Rolls Royce that were available on the earlier A330 program. “We have not officially started yet a full-scale program,” Schoellhorn said. “I think by the end of the year, we’re going to be in a full-blown program.”
The Airbus MRTT program initially won a competition for the USAir Force before political intervention by the late Senator John McCain resulted in a rebid and a win for the competing Boeing KC-46A. The MRTT+ program would improve performance significantly and increase the performance GAP between the two models even further in Airbus favor, including a 41% increase in range.
Marketing to the rest of the world, the MRTT has been quite successful, with a number of recent orders from around the world. Airbus has been cooperating with Northrop Grumman for the US market, but continues to focus its efforts internationally until it is determined with a USAF bid will occur. A recent MRTT order with Saudi Arabia and multiple orders in Europe have demonstrated the success of the aircraft.
If the US market shows interest, Airbus will be available and compete, but for now is concentrating on the international market, which is seeking the most fuel efficient and effective capabilities, which the MRTT+ will provide with next generation technology.
