Indian microlight aircraft competition

The Indian Microlight aircraft procurement process started when Ministry of Defence issued a Request for Information (RFI) to procure Microlight aircraft for bird surveys and adventure activities during the late 2000s.
The Request for Information (RFI) called for Non aerobatic Microlight (Less than 450 kg) aircraft to be purchased "Off-the -self". It was preferred to have Composite airframe structure to carry two pilots side by side seating with dual controls for the crew. Fitted with a built-in GPS navigation system and dual air-to-air and air-to-ground communication. The aircraft should be capable of undertaking operating from airfields of elevation of 1,500 m. and have Service Ceiling not less than 3.0 km AMSL. It should be Powered by a reliable proven single engine and Certification by an internationally recognized agency for safety. As per RFI all components should be easily accessible for its easy removal, installation and maintenance. The turnaround servicing should not exceed 45 minutes. Should preferably have Ballistic
recover system or emergency parachute system.
The Total Technical Life of should be more than 10 years. The aircraft should be easy to assemble
and dismantle for transportation by road or air. The acquisition process would be carried out under the provisions of DPP-2008. Other reported desired element included minimum speed of 90 kmph and capable of operating on paved, hard grassy surfaces, advanced Landing Grounds and from disused airfields. It should have an endurance of one-and-a-half hour with full fuel, with additional fuel tanks to complement endurance by another one-and-a-half hour.
In June 2011, it was reported that four Indian and four international companies have shown interest in supplying the aircraft.
On 12 October 2015 Pipistrel won the tender to supply 194 light trainers to the Indian Air Force (72 aircraft), Indian Navy (12 aircraft) and National Cadet Corps (110 aircraft). The Indian version of two seater Pipistrel Virus SW 80 aircraft, known as the Garud after a bird in Hindu mythology, will be used for training of Flight Safety and Air Wing Cadets and the entire quantity of 194 aircraft must be delivered 30 months from the day of the first delivery. The contract includes an option for an additional 100 aircraft within the third year.

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