Russian Helicopters signs MoUs to localise Kamov-226T production
- Russian Helicopters has signed memorandums of understandings (MoUs) with five Indian companies to localise components for the Kamov-226T utility helicopter chosen by India.
- The MoUs were signed with Elcom, Valdel Advanced Technologies, Dynamatic Technologies, Integrated Helicopter Services, and Bharat Forge, covering assemblies such as fuselage, blades, radio station, and landing gear.
- India and Russia have concluded an inter-governmental agreement (IGA) for 200 helicopters estimated to cost over $1 billion. As per the deal, 60 helicopters will be imported from Russia and at least another 140 will be built in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) with technology transfer.
- As part of the IGA, a joint venture (JV) has already been set up between HAL and Russia’s Rostec – JSC Rosoboronexport and Russian Helicopters.
- The Kamov-226T helicopters are meant to replace the ageing and obsolete Cheetah and Chetak fleets of the Indian armed forces. The number is expected to go beyond 200, given the large requirement of the services. India and Russia also intend to export the Kamov-226T to third countries after meeting domestic requirement.
