Airbus DS to expand MRTT conversion capacity

Airbus is to open a second A300 MRTT conversion plant in Seville to augment the existing one at Getafe (pictured), as it looks to satisfy increasing customer demand. (Airbus)

Airbus Defence and Space (DS) is to open a new conversion facility for its A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft in Spain to accommodate increased customer demand.

The company announced on 20 May 2026 that a new facility will be opened in Seville by the end of 2027, augmenting the existing facility in Getafe near Madrid.

“This new centre … 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 centre in Seville, as well as the upgrading of A330 MRTTs already in service,” Airbus DS said.

As noted in the announcement, the site in Seville was chosen to benefit from operational and logistical synergies of the A400M and C295 final assembly lines (FALs) already at the location. The existing infrastructure will be modernised to maximise its 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 programme for the … local workforce,” the company said. The Airbus plant in Getafe will act as strategic coordinator, enabling both centres to work in a complementary manner to satisfy what Airbus DS described as “high market demand for A330 MRTTs resulting from the increase in global defence investment”.

For more, please see Paris Air Show 2025: Airbus to increase MRTT build rate to satisfy surge in tanker demand