US May Miss Out Of Mega India Jet Fighter Deal

MILPLEX

The Indian Air Force has been spurred in its acquisition efforts by declining numbers of its frontline combat fleet, which has dipped to 32-33 fighter squadrons, compared with the government approved strength of 40.

by John C.K. Daly
UPI International Correspondent
Washington (UPI) Oct 10, 2006
The United States, seeking to enter India's lucrative arms market, is dropping behind on a $6.5-billion Indian Air Force contract for acquiring 126 multi-role fighters. The Times of India reported Oct. 6 that despite Indian concerns about a recent $5 billion sale by Washington of 36 F-16s to archrival Pakistan, the IAF remains confident of its deterrent ability.

Indian Air Force Air Chief Marshal S. P. Tyagi told journalists Thursday, in the run-up to Air Force Day Oct. 8, "I want to assure you that IAF remains, as always, combat ready to meet any challenge to the nation. We already have a trans-oceanic capability that can protect and project Indian interests. Our vision is to acquire strategic reach."

Regarding Pakistan's growing aerial capabilities Tyagi said, "But yes, it's a matter of concern ... if the balance of power changes in the subcontinent, we have to take note of it. I am in constant dialogue with the government and it's alive and responsive to our needs."

"Apart from the accelerated program for production of Sukhoi-30MKIs, we are looking at getting 20 new Jaguars and 20 Light Combat Aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. We also have several upgrade programs, ranging from MiG-27s and Jaguars to MiG-29s and Mirage-2000s. We will also get the Hawks (advanced British jet trainers) and the Phalcon AWACs (Israeli airborne warning and control aircraft) next year," he said.

Each India Air Force fighter squadron fields 12 to 18 jets.

While according to Tyagi India's Defense Ministry is now "pretty close" to issuing request for proposals for the massive contract, as an interim measure the Indian Air Force is considering purchasing around 40 second-hand Mirage-2000s from France and Qatar to supplement the three Mirage-2000 squadrons it already operates.

For the massive contract the frontline contenders include the Russian MiG-35, French Rafale, Swedish JAS-39 Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon and U.S. F/A-18 "Super Hornets" and F-16 "Falcons," but the massive cost of the American aircraft compared with that of the contenders is giving the Indian Air Force pause for thought.

Source: United Press International

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