New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) today started the process of procuring six flight refueler aircraft (FRA). This is the IAF's third attempt over the last seven years in procuring such aircraft for expanding the operational reach of its combat fleet. Currently, this requirement is being met by its IL-78s which have been facing maintenance issues, hampering the air to air refuelling capability.
The IAF today issued a Request for Information (RFI) for procuring "six FRAs along with its associated equipment for the IAF to meet air to air refueling requirements", according to the RFI's description.
Air to air refueling or also known aerial refueling is the process of transferring aviation fuel from a tanker aircraft to the receiving aircraft during flight. This allows the receiving aircraft to remain airborne longer, thereby extending its range. This process also allows a fighter jet to take off with complete combat payload and refuel immediately. In addition, for exploiting the full potential of the aircraft to switch from one theatre to another this requirement becomes essential.
Sources explained that the FRA being looked at by the IAF will be a twin-crew aircraft. "It can also be second hand aircraft, provided they have 40 years of life and adequate flying hours," explained sources.
25/01/18 Shaurya Karanbir Gurung/Economic Times
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The IAF today issued a Request for Information (RFI) for procuring "six FRAs along with its associated equipment for the IAF to meet air to air refueling requirements", according to the RFI's description.
Air to air refueling or also known aerial refueling is the process of transferring aviation fuel from a tanker aircraft to the receiving aircraft during flight. This allows the receiving aircraft to remain airborne longer, thereby extending its range. This process also allows a fighter jet to take off with complete combat payload and refuel immediately. In addition, for exploiting the full potential of the aircraft to switch from one theatre to another this requirement becomes essential.
Sources explained that the FRA being looked at by the IAF will be a twin-crew aircraft. "It can also be second hand aircraft, provided they have 40 years of life and adequate flying hours," explained sources.
25/01/18 Shaurya Karanbir Gurung/Economic Times
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