The head of the Indian air force has voiced concerns that the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) will not enter service, leaving the air force with a shortfall in its frontline fighter strength. Meanwhile, India has finalised a deal with Dassault for 10 more Mirage 2000EHs.
Air Chief Marshal A P Tipnis, Indian air force chief, told The Times of India that the air force is aware of delays to the LCA and it is possible that another new type could be acquired, easing a shortfall of around 10 squadrons. Another option is to acquire additional Mirage 2000s, Sepecat Jaguars or Sukhoi Su-30s. The LCA was rolled out five years ago but has yet to fly due to technical problems.
India is to acquire six two-seat and four single seat Mirage 2000s in a deal valued at 15 billion rupees ($328 million). Deliveries are due to start in 2003.
Source: Flight International
