| Despite DRDO's Chief to cut imports India signs Rs. 46,000 crore deal with US | | | Despite suggestions from Dr G Satheesh Reddy who has been appointed as new chairman of the premier institute Defence Research and Development Organisation, the lead research body under the Ministry of Defence. That India should cut down imports of defence weapons, New Delhi has gone ahead with the plan of purchasing military weapons from the US worth Rs. 46,000 crores. And the last hitch over Rafale deal with France is being cleared when New Delhi has suggested to Paris that 50 per cent of the amount being spent on the purchase of fighter planes will have to be spent in India for helping India in "Make India" plan. A distinguished scientist, Dr Reddy has made significant contributions towards indigenous design, development and deployment of diversified missiles and strategic systems, guided weapons, avionics technologies and for sustained efforts in advancement of aerospace technologies in the country.
In spite of Dr Reddy's contribution in manufacturing diversified missiles India still has to bank on heavy imports of multi-range helicopters and other sophisticated weapons. A major breakthrough could be imminent in the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with the French side agreeing to an Indian condition that calls for investing 50% of the deal value in 'Make in India' projects in the defence, security and aerospace sectors. A top team from Paris, led by Engineer-General Stephane Reb, director of the International Directorate of the DGA (General Directorate for Armament) of the French ministry of defence will be in Delhi shortly to work out final price negotiations. The Congress is critical of the Rafale deal with France on the plea that the deal is not only highly costly but it could affect India's relations with the super powers. ..
And the deal with the USA is that against multi-ranger helicopters Washington could acquire naval utility helicopters and artillery guns made in India. And indications are that the USA may agree to the conditions from India. Since India has been surrounded by Pakistan and China, two unfriendly neighouring countries, New Delhi has to spend heavily on the procurement of fighter planes and multi-range helicopters to keep its Armed forces ready for meeting any challenge. Yes, even since Modi has taken over as Prime Minister his plan is to ensure that foreign companies invest in India for manufacturing various products including those needed for military battles so that India could be proud of "Make in India" products. Yes, DRDO may help foreign investors in the designs of missiles, and fighter planes which would help India to reduce imports of costly defence weapons. |
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