India–Israel Relations Strengthen as PM Modi Meets Netanyahu During Crucial Two-Day Diplomatic Visit
The Indian Air Force currently relies just on six ageing Russian-built IL-78 mid-air refuelling aircraft and has been unable to acquire new tanker planes for about two decades.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Israel visit signals stronger defence ties, with India likely to acquire mid-air refuelling aircraft to boost IAF capabilities.
As India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Israel, a report has confirmed the next major defence agreement. Apart from the India-Israel trade and security talks, New Delhi and Tel Aviv are likely to get engaged in the procurement of six mid-air refuelling aircraft for the Indian Air Force. It is expected to boost long-range operational capabilities.
According to sources, the Mid-air refuelling aircraft deal will see an Israeli government-owned corporation team up with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to exchange six pre-owned Boeing 767 passenger aircraft into mid-air refuelling tankers for the Indian Air Force. It will ultimately strengthen its aerial refuelling and long-range mission capabilities.
The Rs 8,000-crore deal is important from the perspective of the Indian Air Force as there is a long requirement for tanker jets. The Air Force has been forced to rely on leased aircraft as a backup. Source also added that it is still being negotiated and is likely to be signed a little bit in 2026.
This Technology and defence cooperation would be significant if it eventually goes through. The Indian Air Force is presently dependent on six old Russian-made IL-78 tanker aircraft and has failed to get new tankers for the last many years.
This morning Prime Minister Modi left for Israel on a two-day visit. During this journey, the Prime Minister will hold discussions with his Israeli leader, Benjamin Netanyahu, and speak to the Israeli parliament, Knesset. Both discuss the Indian diaspora. PM Modi's visit to Israel in 2026 will surely bring positive signs in the two countries. Prime Minister Modi's address to the Israeli Parliament, Knesset and becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.
