Antony slams DRDO over project delays

Defence Minister A K Antony minced no words on Tuesday when he came down heavily on the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) over delays in various defence projects. Terming the time slippages as a “real problem” for the defence forces, Antony said he was “impatient” to see the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project completed.

While speaking at an international seminar as part of the ninth edition of Aero India here, he said: “I am happy for the achievements of the DRDO, but not fully happy. The delays in delivery is a real problem. Try to speed up your process and reduce time for research, development and production. Delays should be avoided.”

On the LCA ‘Tejas’ project, he said the DRDO was preparing for the second Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) of the indigenous fighter. He, however, added: “I am impatient for the Final Operational Clearance (FOC).” The LCA is about 20 years behind its schedule. After getting the FOC, the aircraft would be ready for operational deployment by the IAF.

The minister also expressed anguish over the delay in the Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) programme being developed by the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). “That (IJT) project is delayed, delayed, delayed... You must focus on that project and by the next conference, that should be ready,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Air Chief Marshal N A K Browne, too, expressed his unhappiness over delays in projects, which have affected the modernisation plans of the Indian Air Force .