Moscow: Indian naval aviation has
acquired new teeth with induction of nine MiG-29K
carrier-borne fighter jets from Russia with an extended range
of 3,000 kms and capable of firing air-to-air and air-to-sea
missiles.
The Russian MiG Aircraft Corporation has delivered the
second batch of five MiG-29K fighter jets to the navy, to add
to its four, for which it has raised the new "Black Panthers"
squadron.
India along with Russia, the manufacturer of the naval
fighter, are the only countries to have acquired these
fighters, which will be deployed on the INS Vikramaditya
(former Gorshkov) aircraft carrier, under re-fit in Russia.
The newly acquired Russian carrier-operated MiGs are
considered to be far superior to Indian Navy`s current Sea
harrier jump jets.
Under the Gorshkov aircraft deal inked between the two
countries in 2004, Russia is to supply 12 single-seater
MiG-29K fighters and four two-seater MiG-29KUB
trainer-cum-combat jets.
According to a MiG release first of four MiG-29Ks and
MiG-29KUBs delivered to India have been formally inducted by
the Indian Navy`s "Black Panthers" squadron in February 2010.
MiG Corporation has also delivered flight simulator
and other technical equipment to the Indian Navy.
In March 2010, Russia and India signed another USD 1.5
billion contract on the supplies of 29 additional MiG-29K
Fulcrum-D carrier-based fighter jets and the deliveries are
scheduled to commence next year, about the time Moscow is
expected to deliver retrofitted Gorshkov aircraft carrier
after serious delays.
PTI
