Replies to post #11615 on Tactical Air Defense Services, Inc.(fka TADF)

[Homeland]

Hi Cardinal. Yes I agree with you about the IL78 being an asset getting stale every day that goes by.
My comments about the fueling system were directed mostly at the IL78's completely different arrangement then US and NATO aircraft. My point was simply that if one has the basic components of the system, the mechanisms and systems can be modified or changed to suit the current needs. I know I oversimplified the task. It was aimed to stimulate conversation and dialog on various uses for TADF with this plane.
Refitting could prove expensive and would need to be certified even if systems were fully swapped with an approved system. It's probably too costly to do without any contract at hand. The plane can operate and maneuver with a huge amount of liquid cargo and has the ability to fuel several planes at once. That is impressive.
I am concerned about the tanker sitting idle for years. Plenty of parts and pieces need to be used regularly to prevent problems. I don't think the plane ever got certified, and at this point may be too costly with the deterioration of seals, gaskets and the like throughout.
However, the contract bid that's in work is the most positive news I've heard. I would really like to know more about it and what the bid is for. It is a very real possibility of income for TADF. They just need to break the ice. It could open the door to lots of additional opportunities.