Order Doubles The Size Of The Saudi Tanker Fleet

The A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), on which the Northrop Grumman KC-45 Tanker is based, has further solidified its position as a leading advanced aerial refueling platform with an order from Saudi Arabia for three additional aircraft, doubling the original purchase.

This second acquisition by the Saudi Ministry of Defense and Aviation brings to six the total A330 MRTTs ordered for the Royal Saudi Air Force, with delivery of the service's first aircraft scheduled in 2011. The contract also includes an in-service support package.

"Saudi Arabia's decision to double their original order not only underscores the military importance of aerial refueling, but also further validates the A330 MRTT as the clear choice for countries seeking superior refueling capabilities in a best-value, low-risk solution that's ready today," said Ralph D. Crosby, Jr., EADS North America's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

The Saudi Arabian A330 MRTTs will incorporate EADS' next-generation fly-by-wire Advanced Refueling Boom System on the fuselage centerline, plus two all-digital Cobham 905E hose-and-drogue refueling pods under the wings.

Aerial refueling operations are controlled from a state-of-the-art Remote Aerial Refueling Operator station in the cockpit behind the pilots, incorporating an enhanced vision system with laser infrared lighting and high-definition digital stereoscopic viewing.

Airbus Military, an EADS company, is responsible for the design and production of the A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport.

EADS North America is a principal teammate on Northrop Grumman's KC-45 Tanker for the U.S. Air Force, and is responsible for delivering the aircraft platform, which will be produced at a new aviation center of excellence to be built in Mobile, Ala.

In addition to Saudi Arabia, the air forces of Australia, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates have chosen the A330 MRTT.

Three A330 MRTTs are currently in military certification or conversion for the Royal Australian Air Force. In addition, the first A330 platform for the United Kingdom's Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft was delivered this month for conversion to the MRTT configuration.

FMI: www.airbus.com