C-295 is known to be a superior aircraft used for tactical transport of up to 71 troops or 50 paratroopers & for logistic operations to places not accessible to heavier aircraft.
In a boost to made-in-India aerospace sector, Air Force plans to buy the aircraft to replace MiG-series fighter jets in its fleet. Plans submitted to defence ministry, other stakeholders.
Lockheed Martin, Embraer & Airbus in contention for Indian Air Force's Medium Transport Aircraft programme. IAF is looking to procure 40-80 aircraft to replace old AN-32s & possibly IL-76s.
MoD is considering making 'short service entry more attractive' to mitigate shortage, clarified that available strength is adequate to meet current operational requirements.
India also in talks with Airbus to set up maintenance, repair & overhaul hub for C-295 aircraft, which are operated by a number of countries, including UAE, Philippines, Thailand.
The 'historic' deal is 'most significant' of a number of agreements expected to be concluded between the two countries during PM Modi's visit to the US which ends Friday.
LCA Mark 2 fighter aircraft will be a replacement for Mirage 2000, Jaguar & MiG-29 combat aircraft in the Indian Air Force. DRDO will be developing the aircraft with a GE-414 engine.
Upgrades would include more better radar & integration of electronic warfare abilities. Russia also hopeful of inking deal with India to supply 12 more Su-30 MKIs and 21 MiG-29s.
Speaking at Centre for Joint Warfare Studies seminar, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said air power characteristics which give planner freedom to swing roles must be capitalised on.
SEBI probe concluded that purported loans and fund transfers were paid back in full and did not amount to deceptive market practices or unreported related party transactions.
Many really smart people now share the position that playing cricket with Pakistan is politically, strategically and morally wrong. It is just a poor appreciation of competitive sport.
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