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Initially PAF did push for the A-310 MRTT from EADS. Acquiring a few used A310s wouldn't have been an issue, but EADS was/is reluctant to convert them in favour of selling A330 MRTT. However, the A330 MRTT is considered too expensive (and by some overpriced), hence options in this regard remain limited. On the other hand, should EADS agree then PAF will likely push ahead with the A310 MRTT...otherwise, it can buy some excess KC-135 and wear them out in the hopes that it can afford A330 by then.Why not "relieve" PIA of the A310s they have and get these aircraft converted instead?
Acquiring replacement aircraft for a civilian airline may be cheaper than buying an entirely new military system.
Well PAF wants a boom-type IFR aircraft, and unfortunately KC-130 is only capable of probe-drogue refueling. While KC-135 is a good option, it'd be better to have an aircraft capable of both boom and hose-drogue (given the PAF fleet). We may need to wait up to another year or so before a final decision, as the PAF is still probably holding out for A310 MRTT. I believe an A310 MRTT would cost $75mn, so 4 such aircraft would cost $300mn (a single A330 MRTT!)...whereas 4 KC-135 might cost half as much, but would not be as capable (boom-only) and potentially in lesser-quality condition.What about the KC130 variant of the Hercules- would bring more commonality to the PAF then another aircraft.