Multi-role jet deal in April, says Antony

BANGALORE: Defence minister A K Antony on Wednesday said the Centre may close the medium multi-role combat aircraft ( MMRCA) deal by April 2011.

Asked if the MMRCA deal would be influenced by the increasing role played by US in supporting India, Antony said, "Some more formalities are needed. We are progressing well. I am not an astrologer to say who will win the deal. But our policy is not country-centric. Further, there will be no political decision or interference over any defence acquisition, including the MMRCA."

About acquisition of helicopters for IAF, he said, "All acquisitions are proceeding well. It's tough to elaborate on details and exact timeframe but we are confident that IAF will get all that they want to fight for the country."

It would take another three years for induction of Tejas Mark II. "Our focus now is Mark I that will be inducted in 2012. Mark II should be inducted by 2015," he said.