Tu-22M-3 deal with India close to completion according to Russian Air Force

Published: 1/4/2000

An interview with Russian Air Force Chief, Colonel-General Anatoly Kornukov, on Russian-Indian military aerospace activity, has revealed that the Russian and Indian MoDs are close to concluding an agreement on the long term leasing of Tu-22M-3s, with a buyout option. The deal was first mentioned in the Indian media in September 1999 and was rumoured to be for four aircraft. According to Kornukov, a decision is also expected on whether India will fit its new intermediate trainer and light attack aircraft, the HJT-36, with Russian K-36LT seats. Kornukov expects a positive decision, resulting in orders for seats for at least 170 aircraft, comprising India"s current fleet of HJT-16 Kirans, which the HJT-36 is replacing. The first flight of the aircraft is expected in 2001. The interview also covered training of Indian specialist personnel by the Russian Air Force at its Scientific and Research Institute N13 and the potential sale of three AWAC systems, based on the A-50. This has previously been reported as the A-50 variant, fitted with the Israeli Elta Phalcon radar, the A-501 being developed for China. Associated articles: www.concise.org. 3rd September 1999 and 4th October 1999

Article ID: 1282