Poland moves forward with A330 MRTT tanker purchase for F‑35 fleet

Poland is in the final stage of negotiations to acquire Airbus A330 MRTT aerial‑refueling tankers under the SAFE defence‑funding programme. The tankers will serve as “flying fuel stations” for the newly introduced F‑35A Hornet jets and modernised F‑16 fighters, extending their airborne endurance from roughly 150 minutes for the F‑35 and up to 180 minutes for the F‑16. Each MRTT can carry 111 tonnes of fuel and complete a refuelling operation in 10‑15 minutes, also offering transport and medical evacuation roles.

The contract foresees up to four aircraft. Funding for two will come from the SAFE programme, while the remaining two will be covered by the national defence budget. Deliveries are slated for 2029‑2030, with Airbus’s Getafe plant in Spain identified as the key production partner. The agreement must be signed by the end of the year. This procurement marks the first acquisition of such tankers for Poland and aligns with the ministry’s plan to keep defence spending well above 4 % of GDP, continuing the post‑2022 modernisation drive.

Polish defence officials highlighted the strategic importance of aerial refuelling in countering regional security threats and enhancing NATO interoperability, while also noting economic benefits for Polish aerospace industry components linked to the Airbus supply chain.