The Defence Ministry is allegedly mulling a Rs 10,000 crore plan to purchase six mid-air refueling aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
In addition, preparations are ongoing to acquire three aerial intelligence-collecting aircraft to develop indigenous sensor technology and systems. The idea to purchase six mid-air refuelers might see some progress.
Apart from these six refuellers, the IAF is trying to lease another mid-air refueller for training, and the procedure has already begun. Once in service, the refuellers will cover a crucial capability gap in the IAF’s inventory. These tankers will serve as a critical strategic asset and force multiplier, extending fighter aircraft’s aerial endurance.
Currently, the IAF maintains a fleet of six Russian IIyushin-78 tankers purchased in 2003-04. They also offer limited refueling support for the Navy’s MiG-29K fighters.
However, only three to four of them usually function at any one time.
What is the Plan of IAF?
The plan, which is being considered under the “Buy Global” category due to the minimal quantity required, may result in pre-owned aircraft being transformed into mid-air refuellers, according to sources cited by Economic Times.
The Indian Air Force is investigating alternatives from Airbus and Boeing to replace its Russian-made IL 78 refueling aircraft. Due to their limited worldwide supply, research is being done on purchasing secondhand civil airliners and transforming them into multi-role tankers.
Although used aircraft can be purchased from worldwide markets, local partners may be involved in the engineering and certification needed to transform them into tankers.
Past Efforts by IAF
This is the IAF’s third attempt to acquire these tankers since 2007. The previous two bids were canceled because of disagreements over price.
The IAF had selected the Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) over the Ilyushin Il-78 MKI in both previous tries. But in both cases, financial limitations forced the process to end.
This time, the IAF wants to purchase six “used” or “pre-owned” aircraft that can be modified into mid-air refuellers. The planned lifespan of these aircraft is 25 to 30 years. For the tankers, the IAF is aggressively looking for an Indian maintenance partner.
Forward development is also planned on a 16,000-cr project for three aerial intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance systems that are critical for mapping battlefields and monitoring enemy movements in real-time. The project involves developing sensors and monitoring technology in-house with DRDO as the primary agency, and acquiring a commercial/executive jet from outside.
