IAF proposes to acquire 48 Mi 17 choppers from Russia

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed to acquire more medium lift choppers from Russia at the estimated cost of $1.1 billion (Rs 6,980 crore), offering a vital addition to its transport fleet, reported the Economic Times.

However, the hardy Mi 17 V5 will continue to rule the Indian skies as 48 of the choppers are likely to be procured under a repeat order.

The new choppers, which will serve in terrains ranging from the desert to high-altitude locations along the China and Pakistan border, will be added to the IAF fleet of 139 Mi 17 V5s that form the backbone of the IAF transport operations.

According to sources, the IAF recently moved the plan that includes maintenance facilities for choppers as well as an offset obligation of 30%. The operationally proven choppers are much-needed replacements for the older Mi 8 transporters that have reached the end of their service life.

(Image: Indiatimes)