Italy has selected the Airbus A330 MRTT for a new program covering six multi-role tanker transport aircraft for the Italian Air Force, ending any expectation that Boeing would be chosen for the requirement. The contract is valued at more than 1.39 billion euros and includes long-term logistics support and maintenance.
According to the available information, the procurement was awarded on December 16, 2025, and the final contract closing took place on April 16, 2026. Only one company from an EEA country other than Italy reportedly took part in the competition, with Airbus Defence and Space emerging as the successful bidder.
Although the official documents do not name the model directly, the award points to the A330 MRTT, a platform already in service with several Western air forces. The aircraft can conduct in-flight refueling, strategic transport, medical evacuation, VIP transport, and cargo missions. It can carry up to about 300 passengers or be configured for Medevac operations with 40 stretchers and dedicated medical staff. The support package is expected to run for more than a decade.