Article Posted on : - Feb 07, 2013

AH-64D Apache Block III. A Boeing photo.

BANGALORE (BNS): US defence major Boeing said the company is uniquely positioned to offer the best in technology, capability and support to customers in India.

“We are investing in collaborations and partnerships with Indian industry and academia to jointly harness the full potential of India and Boeing,” said Boeing India President Prat Kumar.

“This winning relationship will provide a fantastic opportunity to build a strong future for India’s aerospace industry. India is also an important customer, and we are here to remain responsive to our commercial and defense customers’ requirements. We are definitely here for the long term.”

“The induction of Boeing P-8I and C-17 aircraft and Harpoon missiles in India’s fleet will significantly enhance the country’s maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and airlift capabilities,” said Dennis Swanson, vice president, International Business Development, Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

“Boeing is focused on delivering its commitments to India’s Ministry of Defence, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force and looks forward to a closer partnership in 2013 and beyond,” he said.

Boeing is on track to deliver three P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine aircraft to the Indian Navy in 2013 and the remaining five by 2015. The Indian Air Force will receive five C-17 Globemaster III airlifters in 2013 and five in 2014.

The company has proposed its AH-64 Apache to become the Indian Air Force’s next attack helicopter, and submitted its H-47 Chinook for the heavy-lift helicopter competition.