Copyright republicworld
The Indian Air Force is set to finalize a deal worth approximately 8,000 crore rupees with Israel Aerospace Industries to acquire six mid-air refueling aircraft based on modified Boeing 767 jets. These second-hand commercial airframes will be converted into aerial tankers and are expected to significantly enhance the IAF’s operational reach. The Israeli firm emerged as the sole vendor after other contenders failed to meet requirements, including a 30 percent indigenous content clause under the Make in India initiative. This procurement comes after multiple failed attempts over the past 15 years to expand the IAF’s tanker fleet. Currently, the IAF operates six Russian-origin IL-78 tankers based in Agra, which support a wide range of fighter aircraft including the Su-30MKI and Rafale. However, these platforms have faced persistent maintenance and serviceability issues, prompting the need for more reliable and modern alternatives. The new Boeing 767-based tankers are expected to offer better availability, longer range, and improved compatibility with India’s expanding fleet of multirole fighters. The IAF has also resorted to wet-leasing tanker aircraft in recent years to meet operational demands. The induction of these new tankers will be a critical step in strengthening India’s strategic airlift and deep-strike capabilities across extended theaters.
