India is realising the urgency of meeting the shortfall and therefore, IAF is looking forward to temporarily lease an Airbus MRTT A-330 Refueller aircraft from French Air Force. The FRA provides operational independence by reducing reliance on Forward Base Support Units and land-based refuelling infrastructure installed in some of them. To meet the growing operational demands, the IAF is exploring the acquisition of modern aerial refueller aircraft. Acquiring modern flight refueller aircraft, integrating them into network-centric operations and developing robust training and doctrine are essential steps for enhancing the IAF’s aerial refuelling capabilities. The strategic and operational benefits of aerial refuelling extend beyond immediate mission requirements, contributing to India’s broader defense, deterrence and strategic power projection goals.

Source: Economic Times July 18, 2024 17:10 UTC