Fact Sheet: Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport

The A330 MRTT's AAR capability will provide our fighters with the endurance to defend Singapore against any potential hostile air threats. In addition, its multi-role capability, coupled with the ability to airlift palletised cargo is also useful when the SAF deploys for international Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions and Peace Support Operations.

Air-to-Air Refuelling Capabilities

The A330 MRTT is capable of lifting 245,000 lbs (111,000 kg) of fuel for its own use or for offload to its receiver aircraft. It can refuel both drogue-refuelled receivers such as the F-5s, and boom-refuelled receivers such as the F-15s and F-16s. The flexibility enables the tanker to refuel all fighter aircraft in the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF).Additionally, the A330 MRTT is equipped with the Universal Aerial Refuelling Receptacle Slipway Installation (UARRSI), which allows it to receive fuel from another tanker. This will increase the endurance and range of the A330 MRTT to fulfil its mission during extended operations.

Airlift Capabilities

Apart from AAR operations, the A330 MRTT has the ability to carry 82,000 lbs (37,000 kg) of cargo and ferry 266 passengers simultaneously. This flexibility allows the aircraft to be configured expeditiously for a wide range of airlift missions. When needed, the aircraft can be equipped with medical equipment for aero-medical evacuation to airlift injured personnel.

Aircraft Systems

Avionics. The A330 MRTT is fitted with advanced avionics as well as fly-by-wire control systems featured in the civil A330 aircraft. It will also be equipped with a customised suite of military avionics.

Air Refuelling (AR) Systems. The AR systems are controlled from the Operator Console located in the flight deck. This arrangement facilitates Pilots and Operator coordination. The Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) is operated by fly-by-wire controls and electrical actuators, together with a 3-dimensional (3D) video system. The 3D video system provides the Operators with a clearer and realistic visualisation of ongoing AAR operations.

Specifications

Cruise Speed

Mach 0.86

Range
8,000 nm (14800 km)

Service Ceiling
41,500 ft (12.6 km)

Max Operating Altitude (refuelling)
35,000 ft (10.7 km)

Refuelling System
Boom and Drogue

Max Passenger Capacity
266 passengers

Max Cargo Capacity
82,000 lbs (37,000 kg)

Engines
2 Rolls-Royce Trent 772B

Wing Span
198 ft 10 in (60.3 m)

Overall Length
193 ft 7 in (58.8 m)

Overall Height
57 ft (17.4 m)

Max Fuel Weight
245,000 lbs (111,000 kg)