Upgrade programme to extend life of Indian Sea Harriers by 15 years

29 Nov 2007

The Indian navy will perform a "limited upgrade" of its carrier-borne Sea Harrier fighters, which is expected to be complete in 2008.

The upgrades are expected to extend the lives of the aircraft by 15 years.

The upgrade, to be performed by Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, will include more advanced sensors, radars and avionics.

Defence minister AK Antony had earlier stated that over the years half of India''s Harrier fleet had been lost in accidents.