Airbus Industrie's A310 has emerged as the preferred non-US platform for future Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) airborne early-warning (AEW) and aerial-refueling aircraft.
The Bedek division of IAI is already negotiating with Airbus about the transfer of engineering data required for the conversion of the wide body civil aircraft into Phalcon-type early-warning or aerial refueling systems.
So far, the Boeing 707 has been used as the main platform for the IAI conversions. The Chilean air force has taken delivery of a 707-based Phalcon early-warning system and the Royal Australian Air Force is a customer for the Bedek-converted 707 tanker.
While the 707 has been an excellent platform, the Israelis reckon a more advanced aircraft is now needed. Some of its customers could also face problems selecting an US-made platform.
As a precaution, the Israeli company has already approached A310 operators planning to sell secondhand aircraft, in preparation for the signing of contracts, for early-warning or tanker aircraft. The company is reported to be looking at a dual-use aircraft, capable of performing both roles.
Canada, France, Germany and Thailand already use the A310 in a military transport role, and Airbus has investigated undertaking an A310 tanker conversion.
Source: Flight International
