Defence ministry nod to buy 145 ultra light howitzers from US
June 25, 2016 19:46
Defence Ministry today approved the much delayed purchase of 145 Ultra Light Howitzers, worth about Rs 5,000 crore, from the US and also the bulk production of 18 Dhanush artillery guns, the first acquisition of such weapon systems by the Army in three decades since the Bofors scandal.
The Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, took up 18 proposals including new schemes worth Rs 28,000 crore for discussion.
Another key project that got an Acceptance of Necessity, which will now allow the Navy to issue tenders, was the proposal to build six next generation missile vessels under 'Buy Indian' category for Rs 13,600 crore.
"DAC has approved progressing of ongoing case of procurement of 145 Ultra Light Howitzers through the Foreign Military Sales route from US. DAC directed independent progressing of offset. The delivery of these guns will be in India which will help in substantial saving of transportation cost," a senior Defence Ministry official said. The DAC has also shortened the supply period of the guns, with a strike range of 25 kms, sources said though the exact period could not be known.
The officer said that India had sent a letter of request to the US government showing interest in buying the guns which will be deployed in high altitude areas in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, bordering China.
The US had responded with a Letter of Acceptance and today DAC looked into the terms and conditions and approved it.
TOP STORIES
© 2024 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances