Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has emerged as the sole bidder for the Indian Air Force’s ₹8,000-crore contract to supply six mid-air refuelling aircraft, reaffirming its commitment to meet the Indian government’s 30 percent Make in India mandate. The deal involves converting six pre-owned Boeing 767 commercial planes into advanced tanker aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and refuelling systems. IAI is aligned with Indian requirements on local content, partnering with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and other Indian firms to deliver around 30% indigenous components, supporting defence indigenisation and skill development. This acquisition will replace the ageing Russian Il-78 fleet, nearly doubling IAF’s aerial refuelling capacity, thereby extending operational reach from the Indian Ocean to northern frontiers. The partnership underscores India’s strategic push to bolster its aerospace ecosystem and enhance long-range fighter operations