Indo-Russian Deal for 200 Kamovs Makes Progress
by Neelam Mathews - September 8, 2015, 11:33 AM This Ka-226T was displayed at the recent MAKS airshow in Moscow. India will acquire 200 in the country’s first major private helicopter venture (photo: Vladimir Karnozov) The inter-government deal between Russia and its client India for procurement of 40 locally-assembled flyaway and 160 locally-manufactured Kamov Ka-226T helicopters is gaining steam. India's Reliance Defence Ltd took possession last month of 86 acres to set up its helicopter assembly and components manufacturing facility at the Multi-modal International Cargo Hub at Nagpur Airport in Maharashtra state. The Indian government’s decision not to give this large order to Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd ( HAL ) is to ensure “all the eggs are not in one basket,” said an Indian defense ministry official. The contract is expected to be signed at the annual Russia-India summit meeting in December. Outline agreement was reached at the last sum...