First Success For Airbus Military In India

The Indian Ministry of Defense has selected Airbus Military to supply its A330 MRTT Multi Role Tanker Transport to the Indian Air Force.

Airbus won the competition after a lengthy and thorough selection process including the completion of extensive flight demonstrations in India by the A330 MRTT during which the aircraft refueled multiple types of IAF fighters and operated from the high-altitude IAF base at Leh. 

Detailed negotiations will now begin which it is expected will lead to the award of a final production contract for an envisaged six aircraft in 2013, according to a company statement.

Airbus Military CEO Domingo Ureña Raso, said, “We are fully committed to the next stage of the negotiations, and ultimately to providing the IAF with what is unquestionably the most advanced tanker/transport aircraft flying and certified today.” 

The large, 111 tonnes/245,000 lb basic fuel capacity of the A330-200 airliner, from which it is derived, enables the A330 MRTT to excel in Air-to-Air Refueling missions without the need for any additional fuel tank.

The A330 MRTT is offered with a choice of proven air-to-air refueling systems including an advanced Airbus Military Aerial Refueling Boom System, and/or a pair of under-wing hose and drogue pods, and/or a Fuselage Refueling Unit. 

Thanks to its true wide-body fuselage, the A330 MRTT can also be used as a pure transport aircraft able to carry 300 troops, or a payload of up to 45 tonnes/99,000 lb. It can also easily be converted to accommodate up to 130 stretchers for Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC).