(a) whether the Government proposes to procure MI-17 helicopters from Russia for induction in the Indian Air Force (IAF);
(b) if so, the details thereof including the terms of agreement signed in this regard;
(c) the utility of the said helicopters; and
(d) the time by which the delivery is likely to start?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) & (b): Yes, Madam. A contract for the procurement of 80 Mi17-V5 helicopters along
with spares and the associated equipment was signed between Ministry of Defence and M/s
Rosoboronexport, Russia on 5th December 2008 at a cost of US $ 1,345,836,495.83.
(c) & (d): The Mi-17-V5 helicopters will be utilized for Special Heliborne Operations,
air-maintenance, transportation of troops and equipment, search and rescue, casualty
evacuation and in armed helicopter roles. The delivery of these helicopters is likely to
commence by March 2011.