Copyright newskarnataka
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to finalise a long-pending deal worth around ₹8,000 crore to procure six mid-air refuelling aircraft from Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI), a government-owned firm that has emerged as the single vendor in the competitive bidding process. According to defence sources, the IAI proposal involves converting six pre-owned Boeing 767 commercial jets into advanced aerial tanker aircraft before delivering them to the IAF. The move is expected to significantly enhance India’s aerial refuelling capability and operational endurance of its combat fleet. IAI emerges as the sole qualifying bidder The contract, once approved, will see IAI modify and supply six second-hand Boeing 767s to the IAF after converting them into Multi-Role Tanker Transports (MRTTs). Officials said the company has agreed to incorporate around 30 per cent indigenous content under the Make in India initiative through offset commitments. “Israel Aircraft Industries has emerged as the single vendor after fulfilling key conditions, including the mandatory 30 per cent local content requirement for refurbished aircraft,” defence sources told ANI. The selection process reportedly saw participation from Russian and European companies as well, but they were unable to meet all the criteria set by the IAF, including those related to offsets and indigenous contribution. Filling a long-standing capability gap The Indian Air Force currently operates six Russian-origin Ilyushin Il-78 MKI mid-air refuelling aircraft, based at Agra. These tankers support various fighter jets and naval aircraft during long-range missions. However, the existing fleet has faced frequent maintenance challenges and limited availability, prompting the IAF to pursue additional refuelling assets over the past decade and a half. Despite several attempts since 2006 to acquire six more aircraft, the procurement had been repeatedly delayed due to technical and cost-related issues. Recently, the IAF also wet-leased a tanker aircraft to bridge operational gaps temporarily, underscoring the urgent need for a dedicated and expanded fleet. Boost for operational reach and endurance The induction of six new refuelling aircraft will significantly boost the IAF’s reach, allowing its frontline fighters — such as the Rafale, Su-30MKI, and Tejas — to undertake extended-range missions. Mid-air refuelling is critical for enhancing strike capability and providing flexibility in long-duration operations. With the phasing out of several legacy aircraft and the addition of new-generation fighters, the demand for reliable aerial refuelling support has grown considerably. The new fleet is expected to improve interoperability with both Indian and friendly foreign forces during joint exercises and missions. Next steps in the acquisition process The Ministry of Defence is expected to review the proposal before granting final approval. Once cleared, IAI will begin the modification process of the Boeing 767 aircraft, incorporating advanced refuelling systems, communication suites, and defensive aids tailored for Indian operational needs. The deal, when concluded, will mark one of the most significant Indo-Israeli defence collaborations in recent years and further strengthen bilateral ties in strategic defence technology.
