NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has formally started the process to replace its old fleet of VIP transport aircraft by issuing a ‘request for information’ (RFI) for 4-6 new Long Range Business Jets (LRBJs) that are meant for secure, rapid and reliable transportation of the military leadership and govt dignitaries.The RFI, which is the first stage to identify potential vendors and understand available technology before initiating a formal purchase, aims at modernising the Air Headquarters Communication Squadron based at Palam, Delhi. The current fleet of four Embraer Legacy 600 jets have already served for over 20 years and are slated for a phased replacement.“IAF is planning to procure approximately four/six Long Range Business Jets. With the view to identify probable vendors who can undertake the said project, OEMs/ authorised vendors are requested to forward information on the product which they can offer,” the RFI posted on the IAF website said. “The LRBJs will be used for VIP role with passenger carrying capacity of minimum 19 passengers,” it said.The existing fleet, which was inducted on Sept 21, 2005, comprises four Embraer Legacy 600 aircraft that have been designated as Meghdoot, Vayudoot, Nabhdoot and Gagandoot.However, the LRBJs are different from the aircraft that are meant only for India’s top three VVIPs: the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister. The Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, known by the call sign ‘Air India One’, are specially modified, secure and exclusive jets for the top three VVIPs.On the other hand, the LRBJ aircraft are meant for the movement of senior govt functionaries, including the ministers of defence, finance, home and external affairs, as well as the chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy and IAF.
