India to opt for air-to-air tanker leasing
The IAF’s Russian-built Il-78 tankers will have to soldier on as India continues its quest to lease and/or buy tankers. (aeroprints.com. Wikimedia)
India continues to beat around the bush concerning obtaining new air-to-air tankers, but a leasing option could be on the way.
Following the withdrawal of two bids for six refuelling tankers in the past 15 years, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is zeroing in on a wet lease for one refuelling tanker for three years. A global RfP should be released before the year’s end.
It will serve up to 100h per month for training purposes. The lessor will manage maintenance and insurance.
Air-to-air refuelling training will cover all Indian fighters like the Rafale, Su-30MKI, Jaguar and Tejas.
One IAF pilot said, ‘Since [fighter] aircraft are of Eastern and Western origin, the lessor has to find a compatible
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Ground tests for CCA programme underway with flight tests to start mid-2025, says USAF]()
Ground tests for CCA programme underway with flight tests to start mid-2025, says USAF
The ground test phase for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme will bridge the gap between prototype design and flight, laying essential groundwork ahead of fielding the uncrewed aircraft.
-
![Italian Army receives first UH-169D light utility helicopter]()
Italian Army receives first UH-169D light utility helicopter
The delivery is the first in a total of 25 helicopters on order, with all deliveries expected to be completed by 2027.
-
![MBDA backs British startup to continue development on heavy-lift drone]()
MBDA backs British startup to continue development on heavy-lift drone
The investment will bring together the Hybrid Drones and MBDA to enable the former to further develop its Hydra 400 UAV, previously showcased by the British Army.
