Tender for the Supply Refueling Aircraft the Indian Air Force

The program purchases of six air tankers for the Air India has entered the home after the test phase of aircraft in winter conditions.

According to "Economic Times" with reference to the representative of participating in a tender "Airbus Militaire" winter test aircraft were completed in late 2011. Currently, the Indian side assesses the results.

 

Indian Air Force aircraft were subjected to three types of tests to verify the declared aim of evaluating the performance characteristics and equipment in various weather and climatic conditions.


India's Ministry of Defense has issued the first request for proposals for the supply of six multi-role tanker aircraft MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) in 2007. Proposals were submitted by the end of 2008. The tender was attended by the company, "Boeing" with the plane on the basis of "Boeing-767", "Airbus Militaire" with A-330 and Russian UAC with the Il-78MD-90. Following their assessment the Indian Air Force chose the winner of the aircraft A-330 MRTT company "Airbus Militaire." However, the Ministry of Finance refused to approve the contract for the purchase of tanker aircraft due to their high cost.

 

Updated requests for proposals were sent to leading aircraft companies of the United States, Europe and Russia in September 2010. Compared with the previous competition inquiry included an item on the calculation of costs over the life of the aircraft.


For scheduled for January 12, 2011 the final date for submission of proposals in the number of contestants entered the European aircraft A-330 MRTT and the Russian Il-78MD. New refuellers are designed to air refueling aircraft, and tactical military transport aircraft and increase the autonomy and range of platforms.

 

At the first stage of the Indian Air Force plans to buy six air tankers, but in the long term, taking into account the situation in the region, possible purchase of additional aircraft. In 2003-2004. Indian Air Force purchased six Il-78 tankers, which are currently stationed at the airbase, "Agra".