NEW DELHI — Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport is denying reports that it has already lost Indian air force (IAF) competitions for heavy-lift transport helicopters and refueling aircraft. A senior Indian defense ministry official indicated in October that Boeing’s CH-47F Chinook had emerged as the lowest bidder for India’s heavy-lift helicopter deal, besting an upgraded Russian Mi-26T2 after life cycle costs were calculated. At the same time, there also were reports that the Russian Il-78MK-90 aerial tanker aircraft had lost to the Airbus A330 MRTT.

NEW DELHI — India on Nov. 28 successfully carried out the first flight of its Jaguar aircraft with upgraded avionics, known as the Darin III. State-run defense manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) flew the upgraded version for re-induction into the Indian air force (IAF) after final certification and clearance. “The upgrade will enable the Darin III Jaguar to fly in all weather with air-to-air, air-to-ground and air-to-sea capabilities, using [the] latest avionics and multi-mode radar,” says HAL chairman R.K. Tyagi.

India’s Jet Airways and SpiceJet could sell stakes to foreign companies following a recent change in the country’s investment rules, a government official tells Aviation Week. Mumbai-based Jet Airways, India’s largest airline by total passengers, is in discussions with Abu Dhabi-based carrier Etihad Airways to sell a minority stake, the government official, who requested anonymity, says. “Talks are on. It is more or less final,” the official says. It may take about 45 days to conclude the deal, he adds.