Indian Navy Requests New Patrol Aircraft
AIN DEFENSE PERSPECTIVE » AUGUST 23, 2013 by NEELAM MATHEWS The first Indian Navy P-8I Poseidon at Utkrosh naval air station. The jet may be a contender for India’s latest maritime patrol aircraft requirement, even though a smaller aircraft is envisioned. (Photo: Indian Navy) August 23, 2013, 10:35 AM India’s Ministry of Defense (MoD) has issued a request for proposal for nine medium-range maritime reconnaissance ( MRMR ) aircraft for the Indian Navy, plus 38 anti-ship missiles. The Navy has taken delivery of the first of eight Boeing P-8I Poseidon jets, and Boeing Harpoon anti-ship missiles. Although the new RFP seems to encourage smaller, lower-cost airframes and weapons, its terms may limit the bids. The RFP states the aircraft must fly a transit of 400 nm at 300 knots and patrol 400 nm for four hours at a height of 10,000 feet, configured with two missiles with a range of about 50 nm. The Mo...