Aerospace Diary

AIN DEFENSE PERSPECTIVE  »  MAY 3, 2013 by    NEELAM MATHEWS IAI-Elta will likely re-bid its airborne integrated signal intelligence system (Aisis), seen here on a Gulfstream G550 model, for a new Indian requirement. (Photo: Chris Pocock) May 3, 2013, 11:09 AM Within the next month, the Indian Air Force ( IAF ) will re-release a request for proposal ( RFP ) for nine aircraft to perform signals intelligence (Sigint), communications jamming (Comjam), ground survey and target towing roles. The previous  RFP released four years ago shortlisted Embraer and Israel Aerospace Industries ( IAI ), both offering the  IAI -Elta airborne integrated signal intelligence system (Aisis). But delays in defining India’s offset policy resulted in price escalation from the bidders, leading the Indian defense ministry to cancel that  RFP . The new  RFP  specifies a larger aircraft that can carry 10 passengers. T...

Neelam Mathews May 4, 2013 Neelam Mathews May 4, 2013 With approval given by the defense procurement apex body, Defense Acquisition Council (DAC), the Indian Air Force is set to release a (repeat) Request for Proposal for nine aircraft along with systems for airborne Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), Communications Jamming (COMJAM), ground survey and target towing within a month.  An RFP released four years ago shortlisted Israel Aircraft Industries with an 8-seater G-200 and Embraer 145, both offering the Elta Airborne Integrated Signal Intelligence System (AISIS). Delays in the offset policy resulted in price escalation by the OEM, which was not accepted by the ministry of defense, leading to cancellation of the bid. “Now five years later, the cost will be much higher given the changed specs and also a highly depreciated rupee,” a vendor says. The new RFP requires a larger aircraft to provide for ten seating passengers in a cabin. IAI, if it participates, wi...