Indian Air Force conducted a technical assessment of six types of fighter aircraft on 643 parameters

August 16 2010 1

India is getting closer to deciding on the purchase of 126 fighters. The MMRCA tender is called the “mother of all deals,” in which six types of fighter aircraft from leading aircraft manufacturers in the world take part, but the final decision can be made on the basis of political considerations.

“We have presented a lengthy report on the results of technical tests of six types of fighter jets, but these data must be approved by the Ministry of Defense in combination with efficiency, cost and political expediency. All these factors will be taken into account when making the final decision, ”said a source of the Indian Air Force.

The flight tests of the aircraft have been completed, and soon the Ministry of Defense will open packages with commercial proposals from manufacturing companies in order to find out which company offers the lowest price. American fighters Lockheed Martin F-16IN and Boeing F / A-18, French Dаssault Rafale, European EADS Eurofighter Typhoon, Swedish SAAB Gripen and Russian MiG-35 participate in the competition.

“We conducted tests in strict accordance with the requirements (Request for Proposals - RFP), prescribing the 643 parameter, which the fighters must comply with. We presented an objective report on the compliance or failure of the aircraft to the specified parameters, ”said the source. It was also confirmed that the Air Force did not create a short list of applicants, this can be done only after analyzing the aircraft for Air Force quality requirements (Air Staff Qualitative Requirements - ASQR).

The source also stated that the evaluation process for the aircraft was so strict and thorough that the test methods and decision-making algorithm used were probably the best in the world and could serve as an example for other countries' air forces during similar tenders. He noted that none of the aircraft fully meets the required characteristics presented by the Air Force. He also refused to answer the question about the suitability of these aircraft for the Air Force, noting only that all fighters are the best representatives of their class.

A possible decision to purchase more fighters than originally planned 126 machines is part of the tender documentation. Such a decision can be made only after the conclusion of the primary contract, which is expected before the end of the year.

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