For decades aerial refuelling was considered a strategic capability available only to a few nations. Air-to-air refuelling (AAR) missions were limited to large platforms specially built by the USA and Russia to support their strategic air forces during the Cold War. Since the 1980s, Europe and China have joined with AAR based on military or commercial aircraft.

In parallel to these newly built platforms, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) first introduced different AAR solutions by converting preowned passenger jets into aerial tankers for the Israel Air Force (IAF) and several international customers. Since then, IAI has modified dozens of aircraft to AAR platforms of different types. These aircraft have served in 12+ air forces worldwide, including the Indian Air Force.

Today, the leading platform providing these missions is the B767, modified into the Multi-Mission Tanker-Transport (MMTT). IAI’s MMTT fully addresses the aerial refuelling and strategic transport requirements. By converting preowned B767-200/300 into B767MMTT, these aircraft provide a NATOcompliant air refuelling capability. The aircraft is also fitted to transport cargo, perform medical evacuation, transport passengers, perform VIP transport, and support communications and ISR missions. IAI has the certification and OEM agreements to market and carry passenger-to-freight (P2F) conversions, whose efficiency has been proven in millions of operational flight hours with air forces and cargo operators worldwide.

The further modification includes the installation of two underwing refuelling pods, each providing a fuel flow of up to 400 gallons per minute. The system also comprises a Remote Aerial Refuelling Operator Station (RARO) with a 3D viewing system for safe and efficient day and night operation. The conversion also comprises an avionic upgrade including a modern glass cockpit, advanced air/air communications, an upgraded Global Air Traffic Management (GATM), integrating Honeywell’s MILACAS TCAS II processor optimised for military tanker and transport aircraft. To enhance the transport capability, a new cargo door and cargo pallet system are installed on the upper deck. Additionally, passenger seats and consoles can be rapidly installed or removed for special missions.

IAI’s B767 MMTT can deploy from all airfields suitable for B767 operations. Unlike standard 767s that require a gateway or stairs, the B767 MMTT is fitted with a retractable ladder providing crew access without ground support. In addition to the comprehensive conversion, IAI offers integrated Logistics Support (ILS) packages, including maintenance, engineering, and logistics support with 24/7 aircraft-on-ground (AOG) desk services that ensure minimal aircraft downtime.

In April 2022, IAI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with one of India’s leading defence companies, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), for MMTT conversions in India. The MOU will combine IAI’s and HAL’s decades-long expertise in developing, manufacturing, and producing leading defence platforms.

The local MMTT modification will utilise India’s local defence ecosystem and support India’s ‘Make in India’ campaign. In addition to MMTT modification, the MOU also includes commercial passenger-to-freighter conversions. This joint effort will provide the Indian Air Force with a full response to their operational needs under the “self-reliance” definition and build up the Indian defence ecosystem with new capabilities and the most cost-effective and best-value solution available. The aircraft life extension and full life-cycle maintenance will be carried out by HAL in India.