India halts Kamov Ka-31 deal

The Indian government suspended negotiations with Rosoboronexport and original equipment manufacturer Russian Helicopters for acquiring ten Kamov Ka-31 Airborne Early Warning (AEW) helicopters for use with the Bharatiya Nau Sena (Indian Naval Air Arm).

The reason behind this suspension is reported to be the uncertainties in arms supplies amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and issues related to payment transfers. Although not officially confirmed, geopolitical pressure as the international community condems Russia’s attack on Ukraine, is very likely to play a role.

The contract was valued at USD 520 million. The Indian Navy asked to buy the additional Kamov Ka-31 helicopters in May 2019, but the acquisition programme faced inordinate delays due to the coronavirus pandemic and the helicopter's high price tag. Acquisition talks resumed in February 2022 after negotiators settled on the price, but the effort hit another snag when officials couldn’t agree on a rupee-ruble currency mechanism.

According to Indian navy officials, the suspension is a setback for the service because the helicopters are needed for the country’s second aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which will be commissioned in July 2022. The Indian Navy operates fourteen Kamov Ka-31s with INAS 339 Falcons at INS Hansa (Goa/Dabolim) and they are dependent on the original equipment manufacturer for spare parts, repairs and overhaul support.

The first Ka-31s, a contract for nine helicopters, were delivered late 2002. The second contract for five Ka-31s was approved in August 2009, with first deliveries starting late 2011.

Photo by Angad Singh / Zone Five Aviation (via Airliners.net)