Members of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) arrived at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, late Friday night, Aug. 27, 2021. Their contingent, made up of aircrew, engineers and security forces, will provide additional support to the Afghanistan evacuation operations. The Republic of Singapore Air Force A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport is equipped to provide aerial refueling, transport and medical configuration capabilities. The United States (US) Government has accepted Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s offer of assistance conveyed during US Vice President Kamala Harris’s visit to Singapore earlier this week.
The members of the Republic of Singapore Air Force will support this humanitarian mission alongside the U.S. Air Force to provide a safe and secure passage for these evacuees. This is just one demonstration of strong and strategic relationships among partner defense forces. The U.S. Air Force 52nd Fighter Wing is providing support through equipment, manpower and airfield capabilities to both Ramstein Air Base and the U.S. Air Force 726th Air Mobility Squadron, stationed at Spangdahlem AB. This support provides flexible and ready options for the Operation Allies Refuge missions.
The Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) is an aerial refuelling tanker aircraft based on the civilian Airbus A330. A total of 12 nations have placed firm orders for approximately 60 aircraft, of which 46 had been delivered by 30 November 2020. In February 2014, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) selected the A330 MRTT over the Boeing KC-46, and signed for six aircraft. They are fitted with Trent 772B engines and configured for a maximum capacity of 266 passengers or 37,000 kilograms (82,000 lb) of cargo, as well as a maximum fuel weight of 111,000 kilograms (245,000 lb).
