Rajnath Singh Says Work On 10-tonne Indian Multipurpose Chopper Is Needed

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday that India has demonstrated its capability in the design, development, and operation of helicopters in the 5 tonne category, but that advancement in the design of the 10 tonne Indian Multirole helicopter is needed to become a worldwide leader.

According to an estimate, India has a demand for around 1000 civilian helicopters and an equal number of military helicopters, indicating a great potential in the chopper market, Singh stated during the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the Chetak helicopter here.

External factors, he said, have had an impact on the serviceability of India’s essential weapons and equipment, and that attempts to achieve self-sufficiency are still needed.