Ahmedabad, Aug 17: Alang ship breaking yard in Bhavnagar has an 'unusual visitor' - an aged Russian-made fighter plane of Indian Air Force bought by a metal trader. It will be dismantled for its precious metal for the first time ever at the yard, sources said here today.

The fighter, purchased from Vadadora for over Rs six lakhs after it was brought from IAF base in Naliya in Bhuj, was brought to alang by road atop a trailer and its 'owner' Bilal Lakadia of the metal trade corporation is sure of reaping profits, sources said.

Lakadia said that he bought the grounded fighter plane without its engine and other contents but containing air-frame-structure after a tender was released by IAF, Bhuj.
The fighter was sold sans any readable markings except SU-5 and even the age of the plane was not mentioned when purchased, he said.

"This is for the first time that we have purchased a fighter plane and we hope to reap profits after dismantling it. Airforce planes do not have crockery, furniture of electronics to sell but the high quality aluminium and titanium used for making their structure will be of use," Lakadia said.
Bureau Report