India to Buy 12 Japanese Amphibious Aircraft

India to Buy 12 Japanese Amphibious Aircraft

(Source: Nikkei Asian Review; published Nov 06, 2016)

By Yuji Kuronuma

After two years of talks, it seems India will finally agree to buy 12 Shin Maiwa US-2 flying boats during this week’s visit to Japan by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On past performance, however, a firm contract is still some ways off. (JMSDF photo)

NEW DELHI --- India's Defense Ministry plans to buy amphibious aircraft from Japanese manufacturer ShinMaywa Industries, The Nikkei learned from senior ministry officials on Saturday.

The ministry will approve the purchase of 12 US-2 aircraft at the Defense Acquisitions Council meeting scheduled for Monday. Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar chairs the council.

According to the officials, the two countries will sign a memorandum of understanding during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan from Thursday to Saturday. The total value of the purchase is about $1.6 billion, but India may be able to negotiate a discount of 8-9%. Other details of the deal, including delivery dates, will be finalized during Modi's visit.

The Japan Maritime Self Defense Force uses the US-2 for rescue operations. It is more expensive than similar planes built by Canadian or Russian manufacturers, but it offers better performance when landing on water or in stormy weather.

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