The missing AN-32 is a grim reminder of how half the Indian Air Force’s transport and fighter aircraft fleet are outdated. They have been phased out by most countries, including those that manufacture them. IAF has been screaming for new aircraft for long and its cries must be heard now.
This World Cup can redefine cricket’s future, and India must win it
The ICC Cricket World Cup begins for India today. Of course, it’s one issue where we’re happy to be partisan. We want India to win and wish them luck. This World Cup can also decide the future of 50-overs-a-side cricket, caught as it is in the Tests and T-20 pincer.
Some of the changes the armed forces require, setting up joint commands, greater integration of the three services, are essentially military in nature. Raksha Mantri and his bureaucratic team can create an enabling and supportive environment for these changes to take place. Where they can make the largest contribution is to streamline procurement procedures, firmly focused on ensuring a steady increase in local content and manufacturing. 2. I don’t think Indian firms, either the PSUs like HAL / Mazagon Dock, or recent private entrants, are in a position to develop from scratch a modern weapon system. More realistic for them to work with the world’s leading manufacturers on a system of joint manufacture in India, with a schedule for increased indigenisation. Nothing in fly away condition. If the policy of offsets has become a little dysfunctional, recast it. 3. As far as transport aircraft are concerned, this should be a walk in the park for HAL. If 15,000 crores are owing to it, clear the bills. Not fair to risk the lives of brave pilots and crew sending them up in museum pieces.