A team from the Malaysian Air Force will be visiting Bengaluru in the next two months to know how far the light combat aircraft is suitable to it
Bengaluru: A team from the Malaysian Air Force will be visiting Bengaluru in the next two months to know how far the light combat aircraft is suitable to it, reports Economic Times.
The Indian Air Force (IAF)too will acquire these fighter jets.
The website adds that the team will be given a full tour of the LCA production facilities, test infrastructure as well as a demonstration of its combat potential, quoting people aware of the matter.
So what makes the LCA so popular?
Well, the Indian LCA has emerged as a top contender for the Malaysian Air Force since it is being offered at cheaper rates than the Swedish Saab Gripen and is more modern and capable than the China-Pakistan origin JF 17. India is offering the LCA Mk1A version, with a modern AESA radar, new avionics and the capability to integrate a variety of weapons.
It should be noted that the initial requirement is for 12 jets, with options for 24 more in the future, the website added.
India will be offering training to both ground and air personnel. It will also pitch in with maintenance, repair and even overhaul facilities. This ensures a high chance of availability.
Presently, the IAF has placed an order for 83 jets. The current price is $42 million per unit.
The website adds that this is the most lucrative aircraft on offer to Malaysia in the global scenario, said the people. Besides the Gripen and the JF 17, the South Korean T 50 is also a contender for the contract. Though Pakistan has also been pitching hard for its JF 17 fighter, its Chinese origins are likely to be an important consideration given that Malaysia has ongoing sea boundary disputes with Beijing, the website adds.
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