India To Fast Track Apache And Chinook Helicopter Acquisition

Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar has sought approval from finance ministry for purchase of 22 Boeing Apache attack helicopters from the US.

Apart from Apache, Parrikar has also directed defense finance officials to fast track acquisition of 15 Chinook heavy helicopters.

“Acquisition cannot remain mired in red tape. If the officials have any concerns, they should record it on file so that the political leadership can take a decision on either to concur with their view or reject it. Sitting on the file is not an option,” a senior official was quoted by Hindustan Times daily as saying.

The $2 billion purchase of Apache and $1.1 billion Chinook helicopter deals have been hanging since 2009. Boeing has offered its 11th extension on price till June 30, 2015.

The Apache qualified in the attack helicopter category, Chinook qualified for the heavy copter tender as the lowest bidder on pricing, fuel efficiency and maintenance for 10 years after beating the Russia-made Mi-26 in 2012.

The IAF has only two squadrons of the roughly 25 years old Mi-35 attack helicopters; it has only three Mi-26 heavy lift helicopters with low serviceability. Boeing has offered India 15 Chinooks (CH-47F) with the option of purchase of seven more of the twin rotor helicopters that can carry 55 combat-ready troops or up to 11,000 kg of cargo.

In case of the Apache, Boeing has offered 22 platforms with the option of buying another 11 through both government-to-government and direct commercial sales route. Boeing has offered Longbow radar with Hellfire fire-and-forget all-weather missiles, Stinger missiles and rockets.