AIRCRAFT LOST BY INDIAN NAVY

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RAJYA SABHA

During the years 2000, 2001 and 2002, the number of aircraft lost by the Indian Navy were 'nil’, two and two respectively.

These lost aircraft were, one Sea Harrier, one Kamov and two IL-38. Sea Harrier was lost during maintenance test flight due to a judgement error of air crew. The cause of the Kamov loss could not be determined since it crashed into sea during a maintenance test flight and both the pilots also perished with the aircraft. The cause of loss of the two IL-38 aircraft was mid-air collision.

The accidents were investigated by Naval Boards of Inquiry. Since the cause and classification of each accident was different, it implies that the accidents are not repetitive in nature. However, necessary directives have been issued for implementation of measures to prevent recurrence of accidents, based on the findings and recommendations of the Board of Inquiry.

This information was given by the Defence Minister Shri George Fernandes in a written reply to Shri Swaraj Kaushal in Rajya Sabha today.