The Ka-226T helicopters which India is procuring from traditional ally Russia has been in the news due to allegations that the Indian side delaying in signing the contract.
Now the reports have emerged that the contract for the supply and production localization of Kamov Ka-226T helicopters for the Indian Ministry of Defense might be signed in the next six months according to Rosoboronexport CEO Alexander Mikheyev.
“A joint venture has been created. The helicopter’s (Ka 226T ) appearance 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,” Mikheyev said.
According to Mikheyev, “the work on this helicopter has already begun,” and the terms are being formed based on the procedures adopted by the Indian Ministry of Defense.
In 2015, Russia and India signed an intergovernmental agreement on the supply of Ka-226T helicopters with 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%.
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In February, the Russian Helicopters Holding signed memoranda of understanding with Indian companies at Aero India 2019 for the production of assemblies components for the Ka-226T multi-purpose helicopter in India.
According to the press release, the memoranda of understanding were signed with the following companies Elcom, Valdel Advanced Technologies, Dynamatic Technologies, Integrated Helicopter Services and Bharat Forge, covering assemblies such as fuselage, blades, radiostation and landing gear.
Light utility helicopter Ka-226T features coaxial main rotor system, maximum take-off weight of 3.6 metric tons and is capable of transporting up to 1 metric ton of payload. The main distinctive feature of the helicopter is its modular design.
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Ka-226T can be easily fitted with a transport cabin enabling the transportation of up to 6 people, or with modules carrying special equipment. Flight performance of Ka-226T helicopter, its environmental friendliness, cost-effectiveness, state-of-the-art avionics suite and additional flight safety solutions make this helicopter one of the best in its class, the holding said.
Earlier, the head of Russian Helicopters blamed the Modi Government for delaying the signing of the agreement for purchasing 140 helicopters despite providing all information. Chief Executive Andrey Boginsky also said it would benefit India if the planned order for over 100 rotorcraft for the Indian Navy could be combined with the 140 India is looking to buy for the Army.
With Inputs From Russian News Agency – Tass
