Spain backs at least seven Airbus A330 MRTTs, with four bound for Poland

Spain has authorized a seven-year framework agreement for the joint acquisition of at least seven Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft with Poland, including four for the Polish Air Force by 2030. 

The Spanish Council of Ministers approved the framework on August 25, 2026, with an estimated value of €5.4 billion ($6.3 billion). It covers the aircraft and logistical support needed to bring them into service. 

Poland will participate through an addendum financed under the European Union’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument. 

Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said that the arrangement covered “at least seven” Airbus A330 MRTTs and that Poland would receive four by 2030. The next step would be the signature of the final agreement, he added. 

Poland seeks tanker fleet to support incoming F-35As 

Spain and Poland signed a memorandum on May 29, 2026. During a visit to Madrid and Airbus’ Getafe conversion center on June 23, 2026, Kosiniak-Kamysz said the countries were moving into the implementation phase but still had to settle aircraft numbers and production capacity. 

Poland considers a national tanker fleet essential to exploit the range and endurance of its incoming F-35A fighters. SAFE provides up to €150 billion ($174 billion) in long-term loans for European defense procurement, with air-to-air refueling and strategic transport among the eligible capabilities. 

The new aircraft would supplement Spain’s existing three-aircraft A330 MRTT program. Its first converted tanker entered service with the 45th Wing in April 2025. Neither country has confirmed whether the new batch will use the established A330-200 or the A330-800-based MRTT+ version. The post Spain backs at least seven Airbus A330 MRTTs, with four bound for Poland appeared first on AeroTime.

Go to Source