Defense Acquisition Council  of the Indian government approved purchase of 197 Russian-produced multi-role Ka-226T helicopters, TASS reports with reference to Press Trust of India.

Ka-226T helicopter was developed by Kamov design bureau. The vehicles will be manufactured in India in cooperation with Russia. The value of this contract was not unveiled.

The offer was discussed during visit of the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, to India at a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The parties noted that the joint venture might produce up to 500 helicopters (part of them may be exported to third-party countries).

Ka-226 light multi-role helicopter is able to carry a payload of 1 ton (or troopers); its range is 450 km.