New Delhi, August 29
Union defence minister A.K. Antony has promised “total transparency” in the biggest global tender floated by the Indian Air Force for 126 combat jets and dismissed suggestions of a “secret deal” linking the IAF order to the Indo-US nuclear deal.
Antony assured that every effort would be made to get the best bargain from the manufacturer who bags the contract.
“There will be total transparency. We have a transparent procurement policy and this will be strictly adhered to” the minister told mediapersons here last night on the sidelines of a function to felicitate two IAF pilots who created a world record by circumnavigating the globe in 80 days in a microlight aircraft.
Antony categorically said that the proposed 123 Agreement operationalising the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal had nothing to do with the 126 combat aircraft for the IAF to replace its ageing fleet. “Nobody can influence us. We want the best equipment at the minimum cost.”
He said India is not against anyone or for anyone thereby making it clear that each of the six contending manufacturers of fighter jets will have an equal opportunity in the selection process.
The IAF tender comes six years after the process for purchase of new combat aircraft was initiated in 2001. The six manufactures to whom the RFP has been sent have six months time to respond. A technical and commercial evaluation will then take place spread over two-and-a-half years. Once the contract is signed with the chosen manufacturer, it will take another two-and-a-half to three years before the first of the new aircraft start arriving.
The IAF has a sanctioned strength of 45 fighter squadrons.
