Indian MoD has decided to expand the number of aircraft requested under its medium-range maritime reconnaissance (MRMR) requirement as well as mandating Indian-sourced content on the contract. New Delhi released the long-awaited request for proposals (RFP) for the patrol aircraft on 8 August. Originally anticipated in mid-2012, the reasons for the delay are unclear. Additionally, the original solicitation to manufacturers called for six aircraft, which has since increased to nine.
The MRMR aircraft will be operated by the Indian navy. Aside from the aircraft, says a source familiar with the requirement, the RFP calls for weapons, defense countermeasures, spares, test equipment, ground support equipment, and training. Although the aircraft will not be required to perform anti-submarine warfare (ASW) tasks, New Delhi appears to be placing a significant emphasis on the platform's electronic warfare capabilities. India is also asking for several locally-produced mission systems to be integrated.According to Indian media reports, the RFP was sent to eight contractors: Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Airbus Military, Dassault, Saab, Bombardier, Embraer and ATR.