With their accession, the MMU now includes eight partner nations and will expand its Airbus A330 MRTT fleet to twelve aircraft by 2029. A new Forward Operating Base planned in Denmark will enhance operational support for NATO’s northern members.
“The participation of Sweden and Denmark underlines the trust in the MMU project, the willingness to jointly expand capabilities and shows that strategic air mobility in Europe is a combined mission,” said Colonel Ludger Bette, Commander of the MMU. This development highlights the importance of shared initiatives in meeting collective defence goals.
The Airbus A330 MRTT is a versatile aircraft, capable of aerial refuelling, transporting up to 267 troops or 45 tonnes of cargo, and offering full aeromedical evacuation support. Currently operating from Eindhoven in the Netherlands and Cologne/Bonn in Germany, the MMU’s expanded footprint will further boost its responsiveness.
Created as a joint NATO initiative, the MMU exemplifies effective multinational defence cooperation. By pooling resources, Allies improve interoperability, resilience, and strategic reach across Europe.
As the unit grows in size and scope, it enhances NATO’s capacity to deploy airpower quickly and efficiently. This expansion directly supports the Alliance’s commitment to collective defence and regional stability.
