According to Airbus, Europe’s largest plane manufacturer, the company has delivered the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s (RSAF) first A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). The aircraft made its first official public appearance on Saturday September 1, 2018 at the RSAF’s 50th anniversary parade.
The new-generation A330 MRTT extends the endurance of the RSAF’s fighter aircraft and ensures the service’s continued capability to provide air-to-air refueling support.
It also provides the RSAF with greater cargo and passenger transport capabilities and enhances its ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) and peace support operations.
Based on the successful A330-200 airliner, the A330 MRTT is a new-generation multi-role tanker which can carry up to 111 tons of fuel. It has the capacity of offloading 50 000 kg of fuel to a broad range of receivers during a 4-hour loitering mission at over 1 000 nm from its take-off point.
In addition, the A330 MRTT can carry a maximum payload of up to 45 tons, combining the passenger cabin and the lower deck: Up to 300 Passengers, MedEvac cabin layout with 40 stretchers, 20 seats for medical staff and 100 passengers, Up to 37 tons of cargo in the lower deck. 27 LD3 containers or 8 military pallets
Another typical mission is the deployment of fighter aircraft over a long distance. The A330 MRTT can support the deployment of 4 fighter aircraft plus 50 personnel and 12 tons of freight (luggage, spare parts and equipment) in one direct flight over 5200 km, e.g. from Europe to Afghanistan.
