Russia inks $1 billion deal with HAL to manufacture 200 Kamov 226T helicopters

Russia’s Rostech State Corporation has signed one billion US dollar deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture 200 Kamov 226T light helicopters.
These helicopters will be manufactured under make in India initiative and shall replace the ageing fleet of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.
This is the first Russian-Indian high-tech project implemented by the Indian government within the framework of the ‘Make in India’ programme with the help of Russia.
Under this manufacturing deal Rostech State Corporation will organize in India the production of Russian Ka-226T and its modifications in around 200 units. It will also carry out maintenance, operation and repair of helicopters.
This deal comes after an agreement was signed between the two countries on cooperation in the field of helicopter manufacturing during recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia.
Kamov 226T light helicopters will be mainly used to move troops and equipment to high-altitude locations like Siachen. This work was earlier carried by outdated fleet of Cheetah and Chetak choppers which had claimed a number of lives in mishaps.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2015