India Ministry of Defence, Indian defence ministry updates on various indian military acquisitions and defense programs such as warship purchase from United States, development of Brahmos Cruise Missile, Arjun Main Battle Tank and other weapons that Indian armed forces are acquiring.
1. Purchase of Transport Warship from USA
Government has approved the acquisition of Landing Platform Dock (LPD), USS Trenton along with four Landing Craft Mechanised (LCMs) and associated package for the Indian Navy from the USA at a cost of USD 48.2 million.
The ship would provide the Indian Navy enhanced amphibious capability. In addition, the LPD can be deployed for disaster relief operations. It can also function as a command and control platform during mishaps at sea like offshore oil installation fires and maritime air accidents.
No technical know-how for the construction of such a ship in India is envisaged under the present acquisition. However, the induction of LPD would help in gaining user experience apart from providing essential design inputs for the indigenous construction of LPD.
This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee in a written reply to Shri Naveen Jindal in Lok Sabha today.
2. Funds for Development of Brahmos Missile
The Indo-Russia Joint project for development of BrahMos missile is not facing any shortage of funds. The project is fully supported by both Indian and Russian Governments, with necessary funds.
The Indian Army has already placed orders for the production of BrahMoS missile system and the induction will commence in 2007.
This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee in a written reply to Shri Hansraj G Ahir and Shri Dalpat Singh Parste in Lok Sabha today.
3. Arjun Tank
The Arjun Main Battle Tank is ready. The project Main Battle Tank, Arjun was sanctioned in May 1974. General Staff Qualitative Requirement was finalized in October 1985 and project was completed in March 1995.
The indent for 124 tanks was placed by users in March 2000. These are currently under production at Heavy Vehicles Factory, Avadi. Tank-Ex has been built by Defence Research and Development Organistion (DRDO) to demonstrate a possible method to upgrade T-72 tanks, with a modular turret as a proactive step.
DRDO is involved in development of weapons and platforms as per the requirements of the users. To make the weapons user-friendly, users are involved in the project right from the developmental stage.
This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee in a written reply to Shri Ravi Prakash Verma and Shri Anandrao V Adsul in Lok Sabha today.
4. Divya Drishti Project
The Divya Drishti project for surveillance of enemy planes is not likely to complete as per its schedule. Alternative arrangements are being evolved for meeting the technical requirements and objectives of the projects.
It is a joint project of DRDO and Signal Intelligence Directorate. Electronic Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) was a prime production agency responsible for procurement of sub systems. A contract was placed by ECIL to a private firm for procurement of some sub-systems which could not materialize as dealings with the firm have ceased. No payment was made to the firm.
This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee in a written reply to Shri Shisupal N Patle and others in Lok Sabha today.
5. CBI Investigation In Scorpion Submarine Deal
The CBI was entrusted with the investigation of the War Room leak case in February 2006. After conducting investigation, the CBI has filed charge sheet in the matter. The CBI had also arrested certain individuals in connection with the case.
During the course of investigation conducted, the CBI did not find till now any reference to the Scorpene Project.
This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee in a written reply to Shri Amar Singh in Rajya Sabha today.
