Question : PURCHASE OF AMPHIBIAN AIRCRAFT

(a) whether the Government proposes to acquire Shin Maywa US-21 amphibian aircraft from Japan;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the number of such aircrafts are likely to be purchased;

(c) whether the Defence Acquisitions Council (DAC) has empowered the Joint Working Group to negotiate the purchase;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the time by which these aircrafts are likely to be deployed for use in the defence forces?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI MANOHAR PARRIKAR)

(a) to (e): No decision has been taken by the Government for the procurement of US 2i amphibian aircraft from Japan.