(a) whether the Indian Government has sought Russian cooperation in manufacturing and developing fighter engine (K-10);
(b) if so, the details in this regard;
(c) the response of the Russia thereto;
(d) the expenditure incurred so far in Kavery project; and
(e) the time by which the project is likely to be completed?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)
(a) to (c): DRDO have sought cooperation from design houses of international repute for joint development of fighter engine Kaveri K-10. M/s. Pratt & Whitney, USA, M/s. SNECMA, France and M/s. NPO Saturn, Russia have responded.
International cooperation is being sought with a view to shorten development time and reduce risk.
(d) The expenditure incurred as on 5th October 2005 is Rs. 1200.94 crore against the sanctioned cost of Rs. 2839 crore.
(e) Production release of K-10 engine is expected by December 2009.