(a) whether India’s Russian Krasnopol inventory was proved defective during the Army test firing;
(b) if so, whether it also displayed ineffectiveness at high altitude warfare;
(c) if so, the details thereof and reasons
(d) the total inventory bought and the inventory found to be defective; and
(e) the total amount involved in purchasing this inventory?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) to (d): Yes, Sir. The performance of the first lot of qty. 1000 rounds
of projectiles procured in 1999 has deteriorated over the years and recently during
test firing by the Army, it was observed that the performance was not upto the mark.
Another quantity of 2000 projectiles procured in 2002 also did not perform to the
desired standards in high altitude areas. The matter has been taken up with the
vendor to rectify the ammunition to achieve the desired results and enhance its
shelf life.
(e) The total amount involved in purchasing 3000 rounds with 81 Laser Designators
is US$ 111950488 (Rs.522.44 crores).