Tel Aviv: India’s Ministry of Defence approved the procurement of six pre-owned Boeing 767 airliners to be converted into Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The deal, valued at $1.1 billion, was reportedly agreed by HAL with IAI, aligning with India’s “Make in India” initiative for local conversion work.
These aerial refuelling aircraft will replace the ageing six Ilyushin Il-78MKI aircraft, which have faced maintenance issues and low availability below 50% in past years.
The converted 767s feature hose-and-drogue refuelling systems, modern avionics, and multi-mission capabilities for refuelling fighters like Rafale and Su-30MKI, plus cargo and passenger transport.
Deliveries are expected around 2030. As of May 2026 reports, the deal is finalised, marking the end of a 20-year search for reliable tankers after failed bids from Airbus and others.
The agreement is based on the vast experience of IAI in converting used passenger aircraft to serve as cargo aircraft and refuelling aircraft.
The MRTT can be reconfigured for various missions, including refuelling, strategic transport, passenger, and VIP flights. Equipped with two or three-point refuelling systems using a Fly-by-Wire (FBW) boom and advanced Hose & Drogue pods.
The converted aircraft features a “smart” tanker design with advanced avionics, allowing for efficient fuel transfer and increased range for combat aircraft.
-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
