Tel Aviv: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) plans to offer the market its converted Boeing 767 that is used as an advanced aerial refueling aircraft.
IAI is a globally recognised leader in the development, production, and conversion of military and commercial aerospace systems, including aerial refueling aircraft.
IAI has nearly 50 years of experience and is Israel’s largest aerospace and defence company, serving both the Israel Ministry of Defence and international clients.
Aerial refueling aircraft are a cornerstone of IAI’s portfolio. The company has converted several aircraft types into aerial refueling tankers for the Israeli Air Force (IAF) and other air forces worldwide.
The Israeli Air Force is using converted Boeing 707 for the missions. Israel has ordered a number of Boeing KC-46A but deliveries are expected to begin in 2026.
In the recent Israeli operation against the Iranian nuclear sites, the old 707’s refueled the IAF fighter aircraft on their way to the sites in Iran.
In 2010, IAI supplied a converted 767 to the Colombian air force that serves as an aerial refueling aircraft.
IAI had offered the converted 767 to the IAF to replace the old 707’s but the KC-46A was selected.
Yaacov Berkovitz, Executive VP and General Manager of IAI’s Aviation Group told Raksha Anirveda that there is a renewed demand for cost effective aerial refueling aircraft.
“We offer such a solution and are already in talks with potential partners. The war with Iran has demonstrated again the importance of an advanced aerial refueling aircraft,” said Berkovitz.
Berkovitz added that converting a preowned 767 is the most cost effective solution. “I assess that the first contract will be signed in the coming years. IAI will offer two version according to the client’s needs- boom or pods.”
IAI’s expertise extends to the development and integration of sophisticated refueling systems, such as the Remote Vision System (RVS), which allows precise control of the refueling boom via advanced optics and controls.
The company is also exploring next-generation solutions, including the potential for unmanned aerial refueling systems for platforms like the Heron TP UAV.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
