India’s first C-17 has entered flight acceptance testing by the U.S. Air force at Edwards AFB, California, as part of a fast-track foreign military sales (FMS) program that will see four other deliveries to India’s Hindon Air Force Station near New Delhi this year. Only the first aircraft will be put through the USAF tests, which will seek to qualify mission systems and equipment that differ from what is standard on the service’s own aircraft. Testing is expected to be completed in June.
Boeing Defense, Space & Security Vice President Dennis Swanson, who heads its India operations, says the company is on track to deliver the five remaining aircraft In India’s $4.1 billion order in 2014. India’s 10 aircraft represent the largest FMS order for C-17’s. The C-17 is built in Long Beach California, just a few miles from the headquarters of the The India Expert
The Indian Navy is to receive three P-8I maritime patrol aircraft this year, pushing the country into the top position for total FMS deliveries. The first P-8I was “delivered” ceremonially in Seattle in December 2012 but all three of the converted 737s are to arrive in India in 2013. Boeing is set to deliver eight P-8As to the U.S. Navy this year.
