 "Israeli firm poised to win Rs 8,000-crore IAF deal for six mid-air refuelling aircraft: Report")
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to move forward with a long-pending plan to acquire new mid-air refuelling aircraft, with Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) likely to be awarded an estimated Rs 8,000-crore contract for six aerial tanker planes, according to an ANI report, citing defence sources.
According to the report, the Israeli state-owned firm has emerged as the single vendor in the competitive process and is expected to modify six second-hand Boeing 767 commercial jets into tanker aircraft before delivering them to the IAF.
IAI has agreed to incorporate around 30% Made in India content through offsets as part of the deal, it added.
The tender, launched several years ago, saw participation from Russian and European manufacturers, but the Israeli firm remained the only bidder meeting all technical and indigenisation requirements.
The IAF currently operates six Russian-origin IL-78 tanker aircraft based in Agra, which support refuelling operations for both Air Force and Navy fighters. However, the fleet has faced operational and maintenance challenges.
The service has made multiple attempts over the past 15 years to procure additional tankers but has been unable to finalise a deal due to cost, procedural, and operational factors.
It recently wet-leased a tanker aircraft to temporarily meet its requirements but continues to face growing demand for aerial refuelling capability as newer fighter jets with longer-range missions are inducted.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsThe new aircraft, once delivered, are expected to significantly enhance the IAF’s long-range operational reach and endurance, supporting India’s expanding air power needs.
With inputs from agencies
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