New Delhi, Sept 12: A high-level us navy delegation has given a detailed presentation to the Indian Navy on the possible acquisition of P3 Orion long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft to enhance India's maritime security. The US delegation held discussions with the deputy chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral S Gopalachari and other top naval brass here over two days on Tuesday and Wednesday. The US Navy is offering the eight Orions from its own inventory at a much reduced price and the planes would later be upgraded by its manufacturers lockheed-martin before delivery to India. A US Embassy release here said the team from US Navy's international programme office briefed Indian naval officers on the maritime aircraft in its capability in anti-ship, anti- submarine, surface surveillance, command control and search and rescue operations.
"The acquisition of Orions would enhance India's maritime patrol capability as the aircraft can be equipped with a variety of weapons and sensors", it said. Currently more than 450 P3 Orion are in active service with more than 17 nations, including Pakistan. US officials said India may keep options open for purchase of 10 more of these maritime reconnaissance aircraft.
Bureau Report