IAI likely to secure $905.7 million deal for IAF refuelling aircraft
Israel Aerospace Industries may convert six Boeing 767 jets into tankers for the Indian Air Force, according to reports in the Times of India.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is close to securing a $905.7 million (approximately Rs 8,000 crore) contract to transform six Boeing 767 passenger planes into refuelling tankers for the Indian Air Force (IAF), according to reports in the Times of India.
The Israel government-owned company has emerged as the only qualifying bidder after proposals from European and Russian companies did not meet evaluation requirements.
Under the proposed agreement, IAI would acquire the Boeing 767 aircraft and commit to performing at least 30 per cent of the project work in India through the Make-in-India initiative.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is expected to act as the Indian partner, assisting with structural updates, wiring, and local systems integration.
The project, which includes deliveries between 2028 and 2030 following necessary clearances, aims to replace or add to the IAF's current fleet of Russian-origin Ilyushin Il-78 aircraft.
These tankers are intended to increase the long-range endurance of fighters such as the Su-30MKI and Rafale, while also providing support for cargo movement and troop transport.