Article Posted on : - Oct 04, 2012

Eurofighter Typhoon.

NEW DELHI (PTI): Germany has maintained that Eurofighter, which was edged out in the IAF tender for 126 combat aircraft, was a good offer but it respected India's decision to go for the French-made Rafale.

Germany is one of the four partners in the consortium manufacturing the Eurofighter fighter jets along with Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom.

"We have the feeling that the European industry has quite a good offer. But it is up to the Indian Government....if the Indian government has any request I am sure the consortium producing Eurofighter is ready to answer all questions," German Ambassador to India Micheal Steiner told reporters here on Wednesday.

Asked if there was any ray of hope for the Eurofighter in the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) contract, he said, "I think it's not up for me. I think what we have to be really clear saying respect for the Indian decision, readiness if there is any request from the India side and conviction that we have a good offer that is it."

On whether Germany was disappointed over losing out in the contract, Steiner said, "Neither this nor that."

Eurofighter and French Rafale were competing in the 126 combat aircraft tender but the latter was found to be cheaper and was offered the deal earlier this year.