New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will get 6 Dornier-228 aircraft, a move that will further bolster its operational capability in the remote areas.
The procurement of these aircraft from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for Rs 667 crore will be facilitated under a contract signed with the company by the Ministry of Defence today, according to an official statement.
The aircraft are used by IAF for Route Transport Role and communication duties as well as training of transport pilots.
The 6 aircraft to be procured have an upgraded fuel-efficient engine coupled with a 5-bladed composite propeller, according to the statement.
The addition of these aircraft will boost the operational capability of the IAF in the remote areas as these planes are ideally suited for short haul operations from semi-prepared/short runways of the North East and island chains of India.