The defense ministry of India has approved the proposal of the Indian Navy that will allow them to buy 10 Kamov-31 Choppers from Russia that is worth Rs. 3600 crores. The move was done to enhance the defense capabilities of India against aerial threats and large warships.
A statement from the ministry said, “The Defence Ministry cleared the Rs. 3,600 crore proposal for buying around 10 Kamov-31 Airborne Early Warning and Control choppers for the aircraft carrier operations and deployment on future warships.”
The step was taken by the ministry during a meeting that included Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
The Indian Navy currently has 12 Kamov-31 choppers which are capable of clearing air space around the aircraft carriers and destroyers operating above seas.
India also has a fleet of the Kamov-28 choppers that are made for anti-submarine operations, the choppers were made in the 1980s.
The deal for the choppers is going to be handled by the Indian Navy, and after the negotiations between the navy and Russia, a proposal will be presented before the cabinet committee on security for the final approval before acquiring the choppers.