Aircraft
New Standard Airbus Tanker Makes First Flight
The A330MRTT is receiving various upgrades, and new ISR missions are being investigated.
The new standard A330MRTT takes off on its maiden flight from Getafe, Spain. (Photo: Airbus D&S)
The new standard A330MRTT takes off on its maiden flight from Getafe, Spain. (Photo: Airbus D&S)

Airbus Defence & Space reported the first flight from Getafe, Spain, of the “new standard” A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). This offers various upgrades that are found on all new-production A330-200 airliners. In addition, the company is making some specific tanker/defense mission improvements. But the first delivery is still more than a year away.