BELFAST — Spain’s Council of Ministers has approved a €5.4 billion ($6.3 billion) expenditure plan to jointly procure Airbus A330 Multi‑Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft with Poland.
The Council authorized the conclusion of a seven‑year framework agreement for the acquisition on Tuesday, as detailed in the outcomes of its latest meeting published on the Spanish government’s website.
Madrid’s summary of the tanker approval states that the framework agreement’s purpose is to procure the aircraft and provide the logistical support needed for its entry into service.
The Framework Agreement, which leverages the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument, includes an addendum that provides for the participation of the Republic of Poland in this aircraft procurement, funded under that instrument, the government statement adds.
Madrid has not disclosed the number of aircraft, but Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak‑Kamysz, announced on X that “at least” seven aircraft will be purchased.
He added that “the next step will be signing the final agreement,” and explained that Warsaw will receive four aircraft by 2030, implying Spain will acquire the remaining three. Details of Poland’s share of the spending plan have not been disclosed.
The Polish minister emphasized, “This is also a crucial decision regarding NATO security and Poland’s security.”
An Airbus spokesperson told Breaking Defense that “negotiations will start soon,” in order for a joint contract to be signed.
Warsaw has long sought an A330 acquisition and formalized its planning by teaming up with Spain to move ahead with the joint order in July.
Spain’s new commitment builds on its initial order of three MRTT aircraft placed in 2021, with the first entering service with the Spanish Air and Space Force’s 45th Wing in 2025. According to Airbus, Spain’s fleet is equipped with a hose‑and‑basket refueling system, offers an endurance exceeding 18 flight hours, and has a range of 16,000 km (9,941 miles).