In a bid to bolster its continental defence capabilities, the Government of Canada has awarded Airbus Defence and Space a contract for four newly-built Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft (MRTT) and the conversion of five used A330-200s. With an order value of approximately CAD $3 billion, this Strategic Tanker Transport Capability (STTC) initiative aims to replace the ageing CC-150 Polaris (A310 MRTT) fleet currently operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).
Graphic: Airbus
The cutting-edge A330 MRTT was deemed the perfect fit for Canada’s requirements to safeguard its sovereignty and enhance operations within the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) and NATO. “As the world’s most advanced multirole tanker aircraft, the A330 MRTT perfectly matches Canada’s needs,” stated Mike Schoellhorn, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Defence and Space. The aircraft’s superior technological capabilities, combined with its interoperability with other allied A330 MRTT customer nations, position it ahead of global competition.
The new fleet of A330-200s will be assembled in Toulouse, France, and undergo conversion at A330 MRTT facilities in Getafe, Spain, starting in mid-2025. The first MRTT is scheduled for delivery to the RCAF in 2027. The A330 MRTTs will be equipped with hose and drogue and boom refuelling options, along with cybersecurity solutions and countermeasures. Additionally, the aircraft will have the Airbus Medical Evacuation kit solution, featuring two Intensive Care Units and additional stretchers.
The comprehensive contract includes advanced training services, featuring the Full Flight Simulator, to ensure crew readiness and modernize the Canadian Armed Forces’ air operational training infrastructure. Airbus was selected as the sole qualified supplier for the CC-150 tanker replacement after an open procurement process in April 2021.
With 76 orders from 15 customers and proven combat experience in theatres like the Middle East and Eastern Flank in Europe, the A330 MRTT boasts a market share of 90 percent outside the U.S.A. and over 270,000 flight hours. This mature platform’s track record of interoperability, mission success, and high availability rates underscores its remarkable performance and makes it an ideal choice for Canada’s strategic defence needs.
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