In a statement to India’s lower house of parliament, Defense Minister AK Antony Dec. 5 acknowledged that in the Indian Air Force procurement for 15 heavy-lift helicopters, the U.S. Boeing [BA] CH-47F Chinook is identified as a pre-qualified bidder.
“The cost of the contract would depend upon outcome of the contract negotiation,” Antony said in his written statement, as published by several news sources in India.
Negotiations are not complete, but agreement is expected in the spring of 2013.
The Indian Air Force conducted field evaluation trials for the Chinooks, and the helicopters were found “to be compliant with all the stated Air Staff Qualitative Requirements,” the statement said.
Antony added that “divulging further details in this regard may not be in the interest of national security.”