India, Russia to Sign Ka-226T Contract By May 2020

The long-delayed Ka-226T helicopter procurement by India is expected to be signed by May 2020.

"An Indo-Russian joint venture has been created. The helicopter is being updated based on the requirements of the Indian Ministry of Defense. We hope to complete the project and sign a contract in the next six months," Alexander Mikheyev, CEO of Rosoboronexport, said on Monday, at the Dubai Airshow 2019.

The JV was setup between Russian Helicopters and Indian defence PSU, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

In 2015, Russia and India signed an intergovernmental agreement on the supply of light Ka-226T helicopters to the Indian side and localization of the production on its territory. The document includes deliveries of 60 Russian-made helicopters and the production of another 140 aircraft in India with a localization level of 50-70%, reports TASS.

In May 2018, the Indian MoD issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to procure and co-produce 200 Russian Kamov Ka-226T helicopters for the country’s army and air force, estimated to cost INR 21,000 Crore (US$3 billion). Additionally, the JV intends to offer the Ka-226T to the Indian navy as part of a tender for 111 helicopters.

At the Aero India 2019 airshow this February, the Russian Helicopters Holding signed memoranda of understanding with Indian companies for the production of assemblies components for the Ka-226Ts in India. The MoU was signed with India's Elcom, Valdel Advanced Technologies, Dynamatic Technologies, Integrated Helicopter Services and Bharat Forge, for assemblies such as fuselage, blades, radiostation and landing gear.