The aircraft is now due to undergo a technical flight and receive its paint scheme. The programme forms part of Canada’s plan to operate nine A330MRTT aircraft, known locally by the military designation CC-330 Husky.
Four of the aircraft will be produced through conversion of factory-new A330-200 platforms. The remaining five will be based on used aircraft sourced from the civil secondary market.
The first Airbus #A330MRTT for Canada🍁 (STTC) continues to make steady progress at our conversion centre in Getafe, Spain.
🔜 The next major milestone will be its maiden flight, a key milestone for this tanker aircraft destined to protect Canada’s sovereignty and enhance… pic.twitter.com/d9WDiW3Akm— Airbus Defence (@AirbusDefence) June 8, 2026
All nine aircraft are to receive the same configuration. This will include underwing hose-and-drogue refuelling systems and an under-fuselage rigid refuelling boom.
The forward section of the passenger cabin will also be adapted for the transport of wounded personnel. This will include patients requiring intensive medical care.
Other elements of the new configuration will include self-defence, communications and cyber security systems. Deliveries of the aircraft are expected to begin in 2027.
Airbus Poland will also participate in the production of the factory-new aircraft. Its work will include cargo door frames, shielded cables and the centre wing box of the stabiliser.
In addition to the nine aircraft, Canada has ordered a set of simulators. These are intended to allow personnel training to be conducted inside the country.
The first two Airbus A330 aircraft for the programme were bought on the secondary market in June 2022 for $102 million. The first of them was presented on 1 June 2023 after receiving its new paint scheme.
That aircraft is currently undergoing one phase of passenger deck adaptation. The first pair is expected to achieve operational readiness in 2028 after completing the adaptation work.
The CC-330 Husky aircraft will replace the Airbus CC-150 Polaris currently in service. They are intended to perform strategic transport, aerial refuelling, medical evacuation and government VIP transport missions.
The increase in fleet size is linked to geopolitical changes and Canada’s greater military involvement in activities in Europe. The CC-330s are also expected to provide important support to combat aviation within the NORAD air defence system for North America.
