SP allows Indian-Foreign collaboration
The Indian Navy is looking for 111 such copters that will be based on ship-decks to replace the ageing fleet of Kamov copters.
Evaluation has been initiated on responses to Request for Information (RFI) for Naval Utilities Helicopter (NUH), Submarines and Fighter Aircraft.
Giving this information, Minister of State for Defence, Dr Subhash Bhamre said as such there is no delay in operationalizing the Strategic Partnership in Defence Sector, which was promulgated on 31 May 2017.
The SP covers Fighter Aircrafts, Helicopters, Submarines and Armoured Fighting Vehicles/Main Battle Tanks.
Meanwhile, the SP model has been made a part of defence procurement procedure (DPP), the guiding framework of making military equipment in India.
Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 30 July 2018, has approved specific guidelines for procurement of naval utility helicopters.
India’s attempt to join the nations producing world-class military equipment hinges on SP model.
Production of four crucial military items fighter jets (both for the Navy and IAF), submarines, helicopters (for all three services) and new-generation tanks are listed under the SP model as cutting-edge equipment needed in a battle.
The model allows an Indian private company to collaborate with a foreign partner and produce military equipment in India.
The guidelines list incentives for foreign companies that transfer niche technology and provide for higher indigenous content.
All procurements under strategic partnership would be executed by specially constituted Empowered Protect Committees to provide focused attention and ensure timely execution. fiinews.com
