Question : ACQUISITION OF DORNIER AIRCRAFT

(a) whether the Indian Navy had acquired some Dornier aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare;

(b) if so, whether the decision to equip the aircraft with indigenous role equipment which is still under development at DRDO is causing any delay in their commissioning;

(c) if so, the reasons therefor; and

(d) the steps taken by the Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) to (d): There was no delay in the commissioning of aircraft. The ten aircraft were inducted in the Navy during the period from February 1998 to December 1999.

The aircraft are being exploited for maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare role.