Israel Aerospace Industries nears $906 million Indian Air Force contract

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is reportedly poised to secure a contract valued at approximately $905.7 million to provide six aerial refueling aircraft for the Indian Air Force. The project involves converting Boeing 767 passenger jets into Multi-Mission Tanker Transport (MMTT) platforms.

IAI has emerged as the sole qualifying bidder after competing proposals from Russian and European manufacturers reportedly failed to meet evaluation standards. The deal aims to modernize India's aerial refueling capabilities, which currently rely on an aging fleet of Russian-origin Ilyushin Il-78 aircraft.

In accordance with India's 'Make in India' initiative, at least 30 percent of the project work is expected to be performed domestically. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is expected to serve as the local partner, handling tasks such as systems integration, structural enhancements, and electrical wiring modifications. Deliveries are anticipated to take place between 2028 and 2030.