India Reissues RFP for Light Helos

The estimated $750 million request is for a contract that would produce nearly 200 light helicopters to be used by the Army (133) and Air Force (64). India is trying to modernize its military and replace its aging fleet of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. Cheetahs and Chetaks and expects the new helicopters to be brought into service by 2010. Contenders in the bidding are expected to include Eurocopter with its AS550C3, aversion of Bell Helicopters' 407, MD Helicopters' MD-500, AgustaWestland's products and aircraft offered by Kamov and Kazan. For related news