We use observations of the mass-independent oxygen isotopic composition (Δ17O) of sulfate in the marine boundary layer (MBL) to quantify the sulfate source from aqueous SO2 (S(IV)) oxidation by O3 in alkaline sea-salt aerosols. Oxidation by O3 imparts a large Δ17O signature to the resulting sulfate (8.8?) relative to oxidation by H2O2 (0.9?) or by OH or O2 (0?). Ship data from two Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX) cruises in the Indian Ocean indicate Δ17O values usually 70%) and increases MBL sulfate concentrations by typically >10% (up to 30%). Globally, this mechanism contributes 9% of atmospheric sulfate production and 1% of the sulfate burden. The impact on H2SO4 (g) formation and implications for the potential formation of new particles in the MBL warrants inclusion in models examining the radiative effects of sulfate aerosols.