Indo-Russian Kamov Chopper JV May Have Bharat Forge as Likely Contender to Make Engines

NEW DELHI: An Indo-Russian joint venture to produce a new series of light military choppers in India is likely to rope in at least one private sector partner for the $1-billion project, with Pune based Bharat Forge emerging as a likely contender to manufacture engines.

With talks on the joint production of over 200 Kamov Ka 226 chopper progressing after an agreement was inked during PM Narendra Modi's visit to Moscow in December, officials have said that there is scope for one or two private sector companies to contribute.

A senior team from Russian Helicopters is currently in New Delhi to sort out technical and financial aspects of the deal which will provide the army much-needed light choppers for operations in high altitude areas like the Siachen glacier where antiquated aircraft like the Cheetah helicopters are still operating.

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