Question : PROCUREMENT OF FIGHTER AIRCRAFT



(a) whether Indian Air Force is facing shortage of fighter planes;

(b) if so, the details thereof and action taken thereon;

(c) whether US Government has proposed to provide fifth-generation fighter F-35 aircraft to India;

(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto;

(e) whether the Government has invited quotations from US and some other countries to finalise the deal for acquiring 126 multi-purpose fighter aircraft; and

(f) if so, the details of such countries and companies from which quotations have been invited?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

(a) & (b): The security environment and the requirements of the Air Force are constantly reviewed by the Government and steps are taken from time to time to induct new aircraft as well as to upgrade existing aircraft to sustain force levels. This is an on-going process.

(c) No, Sir.

(d) Does not arise.

(e) No, Sir.

(f) Does not arise.