IAF making alterations in Sukhoi aircraft to carry BrahMos

Indian Air Force was making minor alterations in its Sukhoi aircraft for carrying the indigenously developed supersonic cruise missile `Brahmos` and the task would be completed between 2007 and 2008, a Sivathanu Pillai, CEO and MD, Brahmos Aerospace said today.

"Already needful modifications for the mission are being worked simultaneously in Brahmos Aerospace Ltd, IAF and HAL," he told here.

"We need only small changes to be made. But it will be a a giant leap because if we deploy aircraft with Brahmos missiles, we will be the first country to deploy supersonic airborne missiles," he said.

The process of installing vertical type missiles in the Indian Naval ships, selected by the navy, had commenced, he said. "Even the latest ship INS Kolkata made in Mazagon dock recently would be fitted with 16 vertically placed Brahmos missiles".

Asked whether there were any plans to export Brahmos missiles, Pillai said "many foreign countries are showing interest in buying the missiles. But since both Russia and India are involved in the development of the missile it is a sensitive issue. Any export could be done only after discussions with Russia. It will take time for negotiation".

Read more