Malaysia’s plan to acquire up to four modern multirole tanker transports (MRTTs) under an ambitious force modernisation programme will significantly boost the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) long-range strike, strategic airlift, and aerial refuelling capabilities.
Zakir Hamid, Airbus Defence and Space’s Head of Asia-Pacific, said discussions were ongoing with Malaysia, which has shown “a strong interest” in the European manufacturer’s A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) (main image).
“As regional partners assess future airlift, refuelling, and surveillance capabilities, Airbus is ready to deliver advanced, mission-ready solutions,” said Zakir.
“We’re proud to deepen our partnership with Malaysia and support defence and security operations across Asia-Pacific.”
Already in service with Australia, Singapore, and South Korea, the MRTT is regarded as the world’s most advanced multi-role tanker aircraft. Based on the civilian A330-200 platform, the MRTT combines the fuel capacity of a strategic tanker with the flexibility of a heavy-lift cargo transport. It can carry up to 111 tonnes of fuel and 45 tonnes of payload, and supports both flying boom and probe-and-drogue refuelling systems – making it compatible with a wide range of Western and Eastern aircraft.
It can also accommodate up to 300 troops or be configured for medical evacuation with up to 130 stretchers. The aircraft’s refuelling boom system and modern avionics make it an essential asset in power projection, extending the range of fighters like the F/A-18 Hornet, Su-30MKM, or future MRCA platforms.
As part of its broader offering to Malaysia, Airbus is also promoting its C-295 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) to enhance national maritime domain awareness and border protection. The twin-turboprop aircraft is already in service with several Southeast Asian countries and is well suited to both the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the RMAF, given the country’s 4,600km coastline and rising threats in the Straits of Malacca.
Equipped with advanced mission systems, radar, and electro-optical sensors, the C-295 MSA can perform long-endurance patrols, search and rescue (SAR), and pollution detection. With a maximum range of over 2,000 nautical miles and the ability to loiter at low speeds for extended periods, the aircraft is designed for persistent surveillance in both peacetime and contingency scenarios.
“The C-295 is ideal for a range of maritime security and disaster response missions in Malaysia’s unique operating environment,” said Zakir.
Airbus also used LIMA ’25 to highlight the 10-year milestone of the RMAF’s A400M Atlas operations. Malaysia was the first export customer of the A400M programme, and its fleet of four aircraft has since become the most active globally, logging over 13,000 flight hours.
These aircraft have played a key role in humanitarian missions – such as the 2018 Palu earthquake relief and Covid-19 response – as well as peacekeeping and regional deployments. The A400M can lift 37 tonnes over 2,400 nautical miles, operate from semi-prepared runways, and is undergoing capability upgrades to meet evolving mission profiles.
To sustain this operational tempo, Airbus has signed an expanded In-Service Support contract with the RMAF. The deal includes enhanced spare parts provisioning, improved service response times, and upgrades aimed at ensuring continued readiness.
Zakir said that in line with Malaysia’s growing air mobility needs, Airbus is also exploring options to expand the RMAF’s A400M fleet.
Elsewhere in the region, Airbus confirmed that Indonesia’s first A400M is scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2025. The aircraft has been painted and is undergoing fuel and ground tests, while the second is in structural assembly.
“With rising demand for versatile air mobility solutions in Asia-Pacific, the A400M is gaining traction,” said Zakir. “We’re in discussions with several governments and are confident the aircraft’s footprint will continue to grow.”
Main image: Airbus
