Sources inform “Globes” that Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) is expected to obtain a contract for helicopter transportation of senior Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officers and some VIPs. The Israel Air Force dispersed its light helicopter squadron a year ago. The contract is estimated at several million shekels per year.
The Ministry of Defense procurement and production directorate is currently negotiating with IAI. IAI plans to buy Indian-manufactured ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) Dhruv helicopters for the new mission.
The IAI Lahav plant is a partner in developing an advanced version of the Dhruv, which will be equipped with Israeli avionics. IAI is expected to purchase the helicopters at a low price. IAI is committed to reciprocal procurement in India in exchange for the India’s purchase of the Phalcon early warning airplane, and the helicopters will count as reciprocal procurement.
Various defense industry sources said that IAI was expected to obtain the project without a tender, as part of the distribution of projects to various defense industries.
IAI declined to respond to the report. IAI sources said that negotiations were underway, and details could not be given at this stage.
The Ministry of Defense had not responded to the report, as of web posting.
Published by Globes [online] - www.globes.co.il - on August 3, 2004