India Cancels $3 Billion Medium Lift Military Aircraft Tender

India has cancelled the tender for 56 medium-lift military aircraft worth $3 billion. Instead it will now purchase Multi-Role Transport Aircraft (MRTA) manufactured jointly by Russia and India, Tass reported today.

According to the report, a spokesperson for India’s Defense Ministry said, India did not find the proposal of participants in the tender for supplying 56 aircraft worth $3 billion satisfactory. "As a result, the Defense Ministry not only declined the deal, but also cancelled the tender altogether."

The Indian Air Force has also "reconsidered priorities in replenishing its fleet," he was quoted as saying.

He further said that India is interested in the purchase of MTA jointly developed by Russian United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) and Indian Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The agreement that was signed in 2010 will develop aircraft with 20-ton payload after investing $300 million each in the project. India plans to acquire 45 aircrafts and Russia will purchase around 100.

The MTA will have 2 turbofan engines and maximum takeoff weight of 65 tons. The cruising speed of the aircraft will stand at 800 km/h.