Russia is set to unroll its new high-altitude light helicopter gunships and has offered its co-development to India as a package deal, which could also forsee cooperation in building 10-tonne-class choppers.
The offer comes as the country is also ready to unveil its new Kamaov-60 and next generation 10-tonne-class MI helicopters, which can be used as heavy lift troop carriers.
India has desperately been seeking to induct light helicopter gunships for use in mountainous terrain following its experiences in the Kargil conflict when absence of such firepower forced it to use fighters firing missiles from stand off distance.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has been conducting trials on light helicopter gunships by modifying the Chetak and Cheetah helicopters and indigenous Advance Light Helicopters.
The Russian designers say that they aim to make presentations of the ventures to India during the forthcoming Aero India show to be held in Bangalore from February 7.
28/01/07 AK Dhar/PTI/Hindustan Times

Labels: Defense, Helicopter, Kamaov-60, MI, Russia

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