Question: Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to satate :-

(a) whether Government has cancelled / deferred the acquisition of 197 Light Utility Helicopters (LUHs) for Army and Indian Air Force in view of bribery and graft in VVIP choppers deal;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the reasons for the same;

(d) whether tendering norms were flouted for this deal;

(e) if so, the details thereof; and

(f) the outcome of the inquiry into the alleged irregularities?

Answer: Minister of Defence (Shri A.K. Antony)

(a) to (c): The proposal for acquisition of 197 Light Utility Helicopters is due for consideration of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).

(d) & (e): The procurement procedure has been conducted in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure.

(f) No formal enquiry has been instituted in the case of procurement of the 197 Light Utility Helicopters.

Defence Acquisition

Defence Economics & Industry