- Views: 243
- Replies: 7
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively exploring options to enhance its aerial refuelling capabilities, with a renewed focus on the Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT).
After previous setbacks in securing a procurement deal, the IAF is now considering a wet lease arrangement for a French Air Force-owned A330 MRTT, alongside new proposals from Airbus and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The wet lease option, which involves leasing the aircraft along with its crew and maintenance support, would provide the IAF with a cost-effective, short-term solution to augment its ageing fleet of IL-78 tankers. This would also allow the IAF to gain valuable operational experience with the A330 MRTT platform.
Airbus has also submitted a new offer to supply six A330 MRTT aircraft directly to the IAF. The A330 MRTT, a versatile platform capable of both aerial refuelling and military transport, has been the IAF's preferred choice in previous tenders. However, the acquisition was previously stalled due to concerns over cost.
With the IAF actively re-evaluating its aerial refuelling needs, Airbus's renewed proposal comes at a crucial time. The outcome of the wet lease evaluation could influence the IAF's decision to either procure the A330 MRTTs directly or explore alternative solutions.
Meanwhile, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the IAF, has proposed a more cost-effective alternative: converting pre-owned Boeing 737 passenger aircraft for aerial refuelling roles.
HAL asserts that this conversion would be significantly cheaper than acquiring new A330 MRTTs. However, this proposal awaits a formal tender from the IAF before it can proceed further.
While a converted Boeing 737 may have limitations in payload and range compared to the A330 MRTT, it offers a more economical solution that could complement the IAF's refuelling needs, particularly for less demanding missions.
The IAF's final decision will depend on various factors, including budgetary constraints, operational requirements, and long-term strategic considerations. If the wet lease trial of the A330 MRTT proves successful, the IAF might initiate a formal tender for new refuelling aircraft for the third time, potentially leading to the acquisition of a dedicated fleet of A330 MRTTs. However, HAL's Boeing 737 conversion proposal could also gain traction due to its cost-effectiveness.