The Indian government on Friday given initial approval for the purchase of 15 maritime patrol aircraft from Airbus and six air-refuel aircraft, officials said. According to the Indian government, the Defence Acquisition Council has approved projects worth 845.6 billion rupees ($10.19 billion) for the country’s armed forces and coast guard.
A decision was made to accept the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for medium range maritime reconnaissance aircraft and multi-mission aircraft for the Navy and Coast guard. Although the statement did not provide further details, two defence officials aware of the matter confirmed it refers to the maritime surveillance version of the C-295 aircraft made by Airbus, which will be manufactured in Spain and India.
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The Defence Acquisition Council also approved the purchase of 6 flight refueller aircraft for “enhancing the operational capabilities and reach” of the Air Force, according to a military official.
Three anonymous senior officials, who were not authorized to discuss the subject, did not provide any cost breakdown for the two projects. An Airbus spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Also approved on Friday were anti-tank drones for the army and heavy torpedoes for navy submarines. Each of these projects will go through a bidding process or manufacturer negotiations before approval by the country’s cabinet.
