Israel converting commercial planes into fuel tankers for Brazil

http://www.geostrategy-direct.com/geostrategy-direct/secure/2013/03_27/mi.asp

 

Israel converting commercial planes into fuel tankers for Brazil

LONDON — Israel plans to supply aircraft to Brazil's military.

The Brazilian Air Force said it selected two large aircraft from Israel. The Air Force identified the state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries as the winner of a tender to convert two commercial aircraft into fuel tankers.

"The winning proposal was made by Israel Aerospace Industries, which will convert two Boeing 767-300ER commercial aircraft into platforms capable of performing refueling, strategic troop and cargo transport, and aeromedical evacuation, according to the requirements formulated by the Brazilian Air Force," the Brazilian Air Force said.

In a statement on March 4, Brazil said IAI would replace KC-137s aircraft operated by the 2nd Squadron. The KC-137s were manufactured in the 1960s and operated since 1986.

The selection marked the latest military deal between Israel and Brazil. IAI and Elbit Systems have been selling unmanned aerial platforms and upgrade services to the Brazilian Air Force.