The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to receive its first-ever wet-leased Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker from Metrea Management by October 2025, addressing critical air-to-air refueling needs amid challenges with its aging fleet of Ilyushin Il-78MKI tankers. This initiative enhances mission readiness for both IAF and the Indian Navy while providing an interim solution for aerial refueling capabilities during heightened regional tensions. The KC-135’s proven platform and Metrea’s extensive experience in aerial refueling will bolster operational support, allowing the IAF to focus on training. This arrangement reflects an adaptive approach to bridge capability gaps and may inform future tanker acquisition or development strategies.