The MRTT of the Multinational MRTT Unit (MMU) will take part alongside our F 16s for a formation demonstration that will clearly showcase European aerial cooperation.
Although it does not strictly belong to our national fleet, this aircraft plays an essential role in our shared air to air refuelling and strategic transport capabilities.

A shared fleet between multiple nations

The MRTT is part of the MMU, a multinational unit bringing together Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Czechia, Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
This pooled fleet is coordinated by the European Air Transport Command (EATC), which is responsible for planning and operational tasking.

The aircraft are registered in the Netherlands and operated from two bases:

• Eindhoven (NL)
• Cologne (DE)

Each partner nation benefits from usage rights based on the number of allocated flight hours, while costs and personnel are shared. This model provides access to a strategic capability that would be difficult to finance individually.

A fleet now under Belgian command

Since March 2026, Belgium has assumed a leading role within the MMU. Colonel Aviator Engineer Evert Cuppens has become the first Belgian officer to take command of the Multinational MRTT Unit.
This appointment highlights the growing Belgian expertise within multinational air capabilities and confirms Belgium’s active involvement in the development and operational employment of the MRTT fleet.

Under Belgian command, the MMU continues the professionalization and expansion of the fleet, which is increasingly being used in European air operations. This development strengthens European strategic sovereignty while remaining fully integrated within NATO structures.

Getting to know the MRTT

The MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) is a versatile aircraft derived from the Airbus A330 family. Modernised and militarised, it is used for a wide range of missions: air to air refuelling, strategic transport of personnel and equipment, and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).

General characteristics (MMU standard)

• Type multi role tanker / transport aircraft
• Dimensions length 58.8 m – wingspan 60.3 m
• Engines: 2 × Rolls Royce Trent 700
• Fuel capacity: approximately 111 tonnes
• Refuelling system: ARBS boom + underwing pods
• Cruise speed: : Mach 0,86
• Range: up to 14,800 km (depending on configuration)
• Configurations passenger, cargo, mixed or MEDEVAC

These characteristics enable long range missions while providing excellent operational flexibility.

An exceptional formation with our F 16s

During the event, the public will have the opportunity to see the MRTT flying in formation with our F 16s.
This presentation will highlight:
the interoperability of European air fleets;
air to air refuelling capability;
the complementarity between fighter aircraft and strategic support assets.

The formation flight will showcase crew precision, coordination in the air, and the critical role of refuelling in modern air operations.

© M. MOORS