Airbus A330 MRTT ‘auto-refuelled’ in milestone moment

RSAF A330 MRTT refuels a RSAF F15 via A3R during night. Photo: Airbus SAS 2022

Airbus and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) have achieved full certification of the Automatic Air-to-Air Refuelling (A3R) capability for the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). The certification was granted by Spain’s National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA), following an extensive qualification and flight‑test campaign carried out jointly by Airbus, the RSAF and Singapore’s Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA).

The approval marks a major milestone in the development of the A330 MRTT platform and represents the world’s first fully certified automatic air‑to‑air refuelling system. The campaign verified the A3R system’s maturity, reliability and safety across daytime and night-time operations and a wide range of mission profiles. With certification now complete, the RSAF becomes the first air force globally to operate an A3R‑equipped tanker fleet, with 112 Squadron introducing the capability into service.

Mike Schoellhorn, Airbus Defence and Space CEO, said: “The certification of A3R with Singapore is a significant achievement and a clear demonstration of what a long-term partnership can deliver. Singapore has consistently led the adoption and co-development of next-generation aerospace technologies, and Airbus is proud to support the RSAF and DSTA in fielding a capability that will shape the future of air-to-air refuelling.”

Ng Chad-son, the Defence Science and Technology Agency CEO, said: “Achieving full certification of A3R is a significant achievement as Singapore’s A330 MRTTs can now perform automatic refuelling both in daytime and at night. DSTA worked very closely with the RSAF and Airbus to advance innovation, enhance safety and reduce crew workload. This attainment showcases effective technology integration and sets a new benchmark on automatic aerial refuelling globally.”

Greater operational effectiveness
Major-General Kelvin Fan, Chief of Air Force, Republic of Singapore Air Force, added: “The RSAF is pleased to have partnered with DSTA and Airbus in pioneering the world’s first A3R capability. This development will enhance the RSAF’s aerial refuelling operations, contributing to greater operational effectiveness. It also reflects the RSAF’s commitment to working with industry partners to innovate and remain at the leading edge of technology.”

The joint A3R programme began in 2020, aimed at accelerating the system’s entry into operational service. Flight testing was carried out in Spain and Singapore, using RSAF A330 MRTTs as well as F‑16 and F‑15 fighters acting as receivers. The work covered expanded flight envelopes, day and night missions and multiple aircraft types to confirm full operational readiness.

A3R forms part of Airbus’s SMART MRTT initiative and uses advanced automation and computer‑vision systems to detect, track and engage receiver aircraft without manual input from the operator. The technology is intended to reduce workload, improve precision and enhance mission safety while offering air forces greater operational flexibility.