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As a part of self reliance in the defence sector and Make in India campaign, India is looking to manufacture 90 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) in India, TOI reports. Soon after the new Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) comes in place, a Request for Proposal (RFP) is supposed to be drafted.
‘Make in India’ - biggest project
With a projected cost of around $30 million, this is expected to be the biggest project that falls under ‘Make in India’ campaign. The requirement from the Indian Air Force is 126 MMRCAs. India entered into an agreement with France for 36 Rafale fighter jets in flyaway condition. However, it is unclear as to how the gap will be filled.
An official from the defence ministry was quoted by TOI as saying that, "An RFP is expected to be drafted soon for making 90 MMRCAs in India. A global tender will be floated. The private sector will also have an active participation.”
When India called to buy 126 MMRCAs, many foreign bidders participated in the race. The makers of Rafale, Dassault Aviation, was chosen finally. All the original bidders are expected to be invited again.
Russia's MIG-35 (RAC MiG), Dassault, Swedish Gripen, American Lockheed Martin and Boeing's F/A-18 Super Hornet and Eurofighter Typhoon made by a consortium of British, German, Spanish and Italian firms were in competition for the MMRCA bid.
-Sumana
