Airbus could miss out as India’s air refueller saga drags on
HAL has emerged as a potential dark horse in the race for converting six preowned B-767s into aerial refuellers. (Photo: IAI)
Amid heightened demand for aerial refuelling capabilities in India, Airbus Defence faces a potential setback in securing defence contracts in the country due to escalating costs and concerns over trust.
Airbus Defence could jeopardise its prospects of winning India’s yet-to-be-released bid for six preowned aerial tankers despite having been among the favourites for the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT).
A recently retired senior Indian Air Force official aware of procurement matters told Shephard that a “lack of trust” from Indian officials could become an issue. The lack of trust would be related to a Request for Proposal (RfP) addressed by Airbus for six preowned Air India A321s. Airbus had committed to a lower cost before the RfP was released but the costs significantly escalated after the RfP was
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?]()
What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?
The use of air power by both sides in the ongoing conflict has been extensively focused on, influencing policy and procurement around the world. But are the lessons from the front line universally applicable, or should other nations be planning for very different scenarios?
-
![Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production]()
Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production
The takeover of the Italian firm by Baykar solidifies the company’s efforts to forge closer ties with Italian industry, bolsters its partnership with Leonardo to produce UAVs and secures its foothold in Europe.
-
![Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight]()
Leonardo’s Proteus structural tests “nearing completion” ahead of first flight
The company has tested over 15 mission sets for the drone, with the rotorcraft used to demonstrate the viability of armed forces utilising large uncrewed aerial systems’ (UAS) for autonomous missions in the future.
