Airbus Defence and Space will open an A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport
(MRTT) conversion center at its San Pablo plant in Seville, Spain, by the end
of 2027 to meet the increase in global demand for tanker aircraft.
This new center, alongside Airbus’ existing facility at its Getafe site
in Madrid, will enable the annual conversion of civil aircraft to military
versions to increase from five to seven. Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO)
work will also be carried out in the new center in Seville, as well as the
upgrading of A330 MRTTs already in service.
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The choice of Seville is a strategic decision as it meets all the
critical requirements for the military conversion of aircraft as complex as the
A330. Seville combines advanced technical knowledge with world-class
infrastructure, thanks to the A400M and C295 Final Assembly Lines, an
industrial ecosystem that is the result of years of experience and key
logistical and operational proximity to Getafe.
As part of the project, the existing infrastructure at San Pablo will be
modernized to maximize its operational capacity and equip it with the necessary
technology for the conversion processes. Airbus will make an investment that
includes upgrading the industrial assets in the hangars, the implementation of
advanced processes and an ambitious training program for the highly qualified
local workforce.
The Airbus plant in Getafe, for its part, will act as strategic
coordinator, enabling both centers to work in a complementary manner to satisfy
the high market demand for A330 MRTTs resulting from the increase in global defense
investment.