IAI Nears $905 Million India Deal for Converted Boeing 767 Tankers
Israel Aerospace Industries is advancing toward a $905 million deal to supply India with six converted Boeing 767 refueling aircraft, outcompeting rival European bids.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is reportedly on the verge of securing a major defense contract with India worth approximately $905 million to supply six converted Boeing 767 aircraft for aerial refueling and cargo transport.
According to media reports, the deal comes shortly after the Swiss government announced that IAI advanced to the finals of a massive $5 billion air defense tender, competing against a French-Italian bid. The Indian Air Force currently operates six aging Russian-made Il-78 tankers nearing the end of their operational lifespan.
Airbus proposed new A330 MRTT aircraft, but IAI’s proposal to convert used Boeing 767 airframes proved to be over 20% cheaper in acquisition and maintenance costs, alongside faster delivery timelines.
An in-principle decision to select the Israeli bid was reached in October. Unlike French competitors, IAI agreed to transfer technical know-how to India, enabling independent maintenance, with deliveries scheduled between 2028 and 2030.
