India selects Airbus Military as preferred bidder to supply its A330 MRTT

India has selected Airbus Military as the country’s preferred bidder to supply A330 MRTT Multi Role Tanker Transport aircraft, following a selection process that included the refuelling of multiple Indian Air Force fighter types and operations from the high-altitude base at Leh.  Detailed negotiations are expected to conclude with a final production contract in 2013 for an envisaged six aircraft.  This selection makes India the fifth nation committing to the A330 MRTT, following Australia, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom – which together have ordered a total of 28 aircraft.