NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) today started the process of procuring six flight refueler aircraft (FRA). This is the IAF 's third attempt over the last seven years in procuring such aircraft for expanding the operational reach of its combat fleet. Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) and Ilyushin's Il-78 had competed in the past two tenders.The IAF currently has six IL-78 aircraft which were procured during 2003-2004 at a cost of about Rs 132 crore per aircraft, which are used primarily for air to air refuelling. IL-78 aircraft are dedicated for this purpose. However, due to inadequate infrastructure and support facilities the air to air refuelling capability was hampered."

Source: Economic Times January 25, 2018 16:04 UTC