Audit Reports
Defence
Report No. 7 of 2010 - Performance Audit of Union Government (Defence Services) - Air Force and Navy
Overview
This Audit Report includes matters arising out of the performance audits of (a) Operation and Maintenance of Mi series Helicopters in the Indian Air Force and (b) Functioning of the Aviation Arm of the Indian Navy.
Helicopters are a key component of defence capability as they make a unique contribution to a wide range of operations. India is a vast country with long borders and possesses some of the world's most inhospitable terrain, be it high mountains in the north, dense jungles in the north-east, deserts of Rajasthan or the Rann of Kutch. Many of these areas are not accessible by road or any other means. It has been the helicopter fleet of the IAF that has provided communication, logistics to these remote areas and played its part in combat role too.
Almost 60 per cent of this fleet comprises of Mi series helicopters. A performance audit of Mi series helicopter fleet's operation and maintenance was conducted. The review revealed that, operationally, there are gaps in the existing force levels since the Indian Air Force (IAF) is operating with only 74 per cent of the helicopters against its current operational requirements. Besides, a large proportion of the helicopter fleet will reach the end of their operational life in the near future. Further, despite availability of funds and a specific acquisition programme, IAF was unable to induct even a single helicopter between 2002 and 2007. Although IAF's own needs were not being met, 25 helicopters were sent abroad for participation in UN missions and seven helicopters were modified for VIP role without approval of the Government. Efficiency of fleet operations, as indicated by achievement of flying tasks, was an area which requires improvement.