India to Lease Airbus A330 MRTT from France to Boost Aerial Refueling Capabilities

In a Strategic move amid aging sanker Fleet the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to lease an Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) from the French Air and Space Force (Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace) for a period of three years. The decision, approved by India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), aims to strengthen the country's aerial refueling capabilities as it seeks a long-term solution to replace its aging Ilyushin Il-78MKI tankers.

This move marks a major milestone for the IAF, which has struggled for years with limited availability of its current tanker fleet. The lease will allow India to evaluate the A330 MRTT in operational conditions, while also addressing immediate requirements.

The IAF currently operates six Il-78MKI Midas aerial refueling tankers, acquired from Russia in the early 2000s. While these aircraft have played a vital role in extending the range of frontline fighters like the Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000, and Rafale, they suffer from chronic maintenance issues and low serviceability rates, often rendering them unavailable for missions.

India is suffering key issues with the Il-78MKI that include frequent technical failures leading to grounding of aircraft, difficulty in sourcing spare parts from Russia, especially amid geopolitical tensions, and outdated technology compared to modern refueling platforms.

To overcome these limitations, the IAF has long been considering a replacement, with the Airbus A330 MRTT emerging as the preferred choice. However, past procurement attempts have been stalled due to budget constraints and shifting defense priorities. The leasing option provides a cost-effective and immediate alternative to meet operational needs.

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Details of the A330 MRTT Lease Agreement

The leasing arrangement will enable the IAF to integrate the A330 MRTT into its operations without making an immediate full-scale purchase. The details of the agreement include:

Aircraft Type: Airbus A330 MRTT

Provider: French Air and Space Force

Lease Duration: Three years

Status: Finalizing terms, expected to be operational in the 2025–2026 financial year

Pilot and Crew Training: IAF personnel will receive training in France before the aircraft is stationed in India.

By leasing the aircraft, the IAF will gain hands-on experience in operating a modern aerial refueling platform, which could shape its future procurement strategy.

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Complementary Lease of Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker

In addition to the A330 MRTT, the IAF has also secured approval to lease a Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker from Metrea Aerospace, a US-based defense company specializing in aerial refueling operations.

The KC-135 lease is intended primarily for training pilots and aircrews in aerial refueling operations, supporting joint exercises with allied air forces and enhancing operational flexibility by integrating multiple tanker platforms.

This dual-lease approach will significantly enhance India’s aerial refueling capabilities and allow the IAF to test both platforms before making a long-term procurement decision.

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Future Aerial Refueling Plans: Towards an A330 MRTT Fleet?

While the lease of the A330 MRTT is a short-term solution, India is actively exploring permanent acquisitions to modernize its aerial refueling capabilities. The MoD is considering a formal tender for purchasing additional A330 MRTTs, with the potential for local assembly under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Additionally, India is examining indigenous aerial refueling solutions, such as modifying the upcoming C-295 transport aircraft for limited refueling roles. However, a dedicated fleet of A330 MRTT tankers remains the most viable long-term solution.

Strategic Importance for India

The leasing of the A330 MRTT is a game-changer for the IAF, with far-reaching strategic implications:

1. Extended Combat Reach

The A330 MRTT will allow India to conduct longer-range strike missions, extending the endurance of Rafale, Su-30MKI, and Tejas fighters.

Increased refueling support will boost patrol capabilities over critical regions like the Indian Ocean and the Himalayas.

2. Strengthening Indo-French Defense Ties

France is already a key defense partner for India, having supplied Rafale fighter jets and Scorpène-class submarines.

The lease further solidifies bilateral cooperation in high-end defense technology.

3. Modernizing the IAF's Capabilities

The A330 MRTT offers advanced refueling technology, greater fuel capacity, and higher reliability than the Il-78MKI.

Experience gained with the A330 MRTT will help the IAF transition smoothly to a future fleet of dedicated tankers.

Conclusion

India’s decision to lease the Airbus A330 MRTT from France marks a critical step forward in its efforts to enhance aerial refueling capabilities and modernize its tanker fleet. By bridging operational gaps while evaluating the A330 MRTT, the IAF is laying the groundwork for a future acquisition of next-generation aerial refueling aircraft.

With the combined lease of the A330 MRTT and KC-135 Stratotanker, India is moving toward a more capable, flexible, and reliable aerial refueling strategy, ensuring that its airpower remains at the forefront of regional security dynamics.

Thailand Advances Gripen E/F Acquisition Talks with Sweden

Negotiations between Thailand and Sweden for the Royal Thai Air Force’s (RTAF) purchase of Saab Gripen E/F fighters are progressing as planned. In early 2025, the Thai defense ministry formally endorsed the RTAF’s decision to procure these aircraft, allowing discussions to move forward. A Saab representative confirmed that the Gripen E/F is the preferred choice for Thailand’s next-generation fighter, and talks between both governments remain on track. 

Thailand is looking to acquire 12 Gripen E/F aircraft to replace its aging fleet of F-16A/Bs. The decision follows an extensive evaluation process in which the Gripen E/F was selected over the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70/72, with offset packages playing a key role in the selection.

The RTAF already operates 11 Gripen C/D fighters at Surat Thani Air Base. In February 2025, these aircraft demonstrated their ability to take off from highway strips in Songkhla province, highlighting the Gripen’s adaptability to different operational scenarios.

With the Gripen E/F deal moving forward, Thailand is reinforcing its air combat capabilities while strengthening defense ties with Sweden 

Portugal Cancels F-35 Purchase Amid U.S. Policy Concerns

Portuguese Defense Minister Nuno Melo announced that the country will not proceed with the planned purchase of F-35 aircraft, citing concerns over the current geopolitical climate and the unpredictability of U.S. policies under President Donald Trump. Melo expressed apprehension about potential limitations in the use, maintenance, and operational readiness of the aircraft due to the evolving stance of the U.S. toward NATO and its allies. 

Portugal had initially planned to invest approximately €5.5 billion over 20 years to replace its aging fleet of F-16s with F-35s, with deliveries expected seven years post-contract signing. However, these plans have been halted, and the country is now exploring European alternatives for its combat aircraft needs. The options under consideration include the Dassault Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and the Saab JAS-39 Gripen. 

This decision underscores the impact of international political dynamics on defense procurement strategies and reflects Portugal's intent to ensure the reliability and autonomy of its military capabilities.

KC-390 Demonstrates Capabilities in Morocco as Potential C-130 Replacement

On February 24, 2025, an Embraer KC-390 Millennium, registered as PT-ZNG, conducted a demonstration flight from Kenitra Air Base in Morocco. The flight, lasting approximately 57 minutes, covered Moroccan airspace, including the capital and surrounding regions.  This event is part of Morocco's ongoing evaluation of the KC-390 as a potential replacement for its aging C-130 Hercules fleet.

The KC-390 Millennium is a medium-sized, multi-role military transport aircraft designed to perform various missions, including strategic airlift, aerial refueling, medical evacuation, and humanitarian support. Its advanced avionics, increased payload capacity, and operational flexibility make it a strong candidate for modernizing Morocco's air transport capabilities.

This demonstration flight underscores the Royal Moroccan Air Force's commitment to assessing advanced platforms to enhance its operational readiness and align with global advancements in military aviation technology.

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules has been a cornerstone of the RMAF's transport operations for decades, renowned for its versatility and reliability. However, with advancements in aviation technology and evolving operational requirements, the need for a more modern platform became evident. The Embraer C-390 Millennium emerged as a suitable successor, offering enhanced performance and efficiency.

The RAF’s Search for a Puma HC.2 Successor: AW149 in the Spotlight

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is in the process of evaluating its options to replace the aging fleet of Puma HC.2 helicopters. This is part of the UK Ministry of Defence’s New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme, which aims to procure a fleet of up to 44 medium-lift helicopters to replace the Puma, along with some other models in the RAF’s fleet. The replacement will be crucial in ensuring that the RAF’s rotary-wing capabilities remain robust in an ever-changing operational environment.

The Puma HC.2: A Trusted Workhorse

Since entering service in the 1970s, the Puma HC.2 has been an integral part of the RAF’s helicopter fleet. It has supported a variety of roles, including transporting troops, delivering supplies, and performing search-and-rescue missions. The Puma has proven itself in numerous operations, both in the UK and abroad, particularly in challenging environments.

However, as the Puma fleet reaches the end of its service life, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is now focused on finding a modern, versatile, and capable replacement. This has led to the development of the New Medium Helicopter (NMH) programme, which is tasked with identifying the right helicopter to meet the RAF’s needs for the future.

The New Medium Helicopter (NMH) Programme

The NMH programme was launched to replace the Puma HC.2 and other aging helicopters in the RAF’s fleet. The goal is to select a helicopter that can meet a wide range of operational needs, including troop transport, humanitarian aid, battlefield support, and disaster relief. The MOD has outlined that the new helicopter must offer advanced technology, increased payload capacity, improved survivability, and the ability to operate in a variety of conditions.

Initially, several manufacturers were invited to submit bids for the contract. These included:

1. AW149 – Leonardo Helicopters

The Future of the RAF’s Puma HC.2: The New Medium Helicopter Programme and the AW149

The AW149, manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters, is widely considered the frontrunner in the NMH programme. It is a medium-lift helicopter designed with versatility in mind, and it has already been demonstrated in multiple operational environments.

Key Features:

Increased Payload Capacity: The AW149 can carry heavier loads than the Puma HC.2, making it well-suited for large troop transport or carrying heavy equipment.

Advanced Avionics and Systems: The AW149 features cutting-edge avionics, enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness in complex environments.

Flexibility: Its modular design allows it to quickly adapt to different mission types, from battlefield operations to humanitarian assistance.

Survivability: The AW149 is equipped with advanced countermeasures and other features designed to keep it safe in hostile environments.

2. H175M – Airbus Helicopters

Airbus Helicopters proposed the H175M, a version of its H175, tailored for military operations. The H175M has been designed to provide long-range, heavy-lift capability and was seen as a strong contender for the Puma replacement.

Key Features:

Large Payload: The H175M can carry substantial payloads over long distances, making it ideal for large-scale troop movements and logistical support.

Advanced Technology: It includes modern avionics and safety features for enhanced mission success.

However, in August 2024, Airbus announced that it would withdraw its bid for the NMH programme, narrowing the options for the RAF.

3. S-70M Black Hawk – Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin proposed the S-70M Black Hawk, an updated version of the iconic Black Hawk helicopter. This military-grade helicopter has been used in numerous armed forces around the world and has proven itself in combat and disaster-relief missions.

Key Features:

Proven Performance: The Black Hawk is known for its reliability and performance in demanding enenvironments.

Combat and Logistics Role: It has been used in both tactical and logistical operations, making it a versatile platform.

However, like Airbus, Lockheed Martin also withdrew its bid from the NMH programme, leaving Leonardo’s AW149 as the sole bidder.

AW149: The Leading Contender

With the departure of Airbus and Lockheed Martin from the competition, the AW149 is now the leading contender for the New Medium Helicopter contract. The MOD has indicated that the AW149 offers a compelling combination of features, such as payload capacity, flexibility, and advanced technology, which aligns with the RAF’s operational requirements.

The AW149 is expected to fulfill various roles, including:

Troop Transport: Carrying personnel and equipment to the front lines.

Battlefield Resupply: Delivering critical supplies to troops on the ground

Humanitarian Aid: Assisting in disaster relief operations by delivering aid to affected areas.

Its ability to perform in diverse mission scenarios, combined with its enhanced safety and survivability features, makes it an ideal candidate to replace the Puma HC.2.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the RAF’s Helicopter Fleet

As the RAF looks to the future, the decision on which helicopter will replace the Puma HC.2 is a critical one. With Airbus and Lockheed Martin no longer in the running, the AW149 is the clear frontrunner to take over from the Puma. If the MOD moves forward with the AW149, the RAF will gain a versatile, modern, and capable helicopter that can adapt to a variety of missions both in the UK and abroad.

The New Medium Helicopter programme will ensure that the RAF continues to have the rotary-wing capabilities it needs to remain effective in modern operations, from humanitarian relief to complex military engagements. The AW149's advanced technology, flexibility, and survivability make it an ideal candidate to meet the challenges of the future.