Indian jet fighter handed over to Air Force

INDIA: The Indian manufacturers of a jet fighter handed the supersonic aircraft to the air force Monday, ahead of the fleet coming into operation in 2013, officials said at a ceremony.

The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), which embody India's ambition to reduce dependence on imported military hardware, is meant to replace the air force's ageing fleet of Russia-built MiG-21 jets.

"The LCA is expected to get the final operational clearance in the next two years for induction and formation of its squadron by 2013 or early 2014," Indian Air Force chief P.V. Naik said.

The air force has ordered 40 LCA's, the Defence Research and Organisation (DRDO), which developed the supersonic fighter aircraft, said in a separate statement.

The air force plans to eventually acquire 200 of the single-seater LCAs to replace the MiG-21s, which have earned the sobriquet "flying Coffins" because of their poor safety record.

Launched in 1983 the LCA project has a history of technological glitches, cost overruns and was hard hit by US-led sanctions imposed after India carried out a series of nuclear weapons tests in 1998.

A prototype was first flown in January 2001. The LCA jet, powered by GE engines, has since been tested 1,500 times in air, the DRDO said.

New Delhi is likely to finalise a $12 billion deal in July for 126 fighter jets for which six global aeronautical giants including companies from the United States, France, Europe and Russia are racing to supply.

India last month signed a contract with long-time ally Russia for the joint production of Upton 250 advanced stealth fighter jets which experts say could be worth $25 billion, making it the biggest in India's military history.

KPMG consultancy firm estimates India plans to spend $112 billion on defence hardware between now and 2016.

Bangalore, Tuesday, AFP