(a) whether the Sea King helicopters imported from USA are in a decrepit condition;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the steps taken by the Government in this regard;
(c) whether there is any proposal to import spare parts for their repairs;
(d) if so, the details thereof;
(e) whether there is any proposal to purchase new Sea King helicopters; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)
(a) The Sea King helicopters have not been procured from the United States of America (USA).
(b) Does not arise.
(c) & (d): Spare parts are being imported from M/s Westland Helicopters Limited, United Kingdom (UK) and other authorized firms from the UK for repairs of the Sea King helicopters. Some of the special parts are being sourced from USA under the Foreign Military Sales programme.
(e) No, Sir.
(f) Does not arise.