The Indian Air Force (IAF) is considering acquiring six additional C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft from the US, an addition to the ten already ordered.
Air Chief Marshal PV Naik told India Strategic that the aircraft would also be purchased through the government-to-government route under the US Government’s foreign military sales programme.
Currently, discussions regarding the IAF’s onboard equipment requirements, spares and service support and their duration is underway between the Indian and the US Governments.
The deal for the aircraft and the package price is likely to be signed once the negotiations are over.
Boeing, the prime contractor of the C-17 aircraft, has said that it can deliver the first couple of aircraft within two years of the agreement.
The C-17 can ferry more than 70t over long distances and can refuel in midair.
