New Delhi – India’s government on Monday approved the purchase of 10 military transport planes from Boeing Co. for 4.1 billion dollars – the country’s biggest defence deal with a US firm.

The order for the C-17 Globemaster III planes will enhance the capability of India’s air force to swiftly transport combat equipment and troops over long distances. It was confirmed at a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security Affairs (CCS).

‘The CCS has today approved the C-17 deal, which will cost about 4.1 billion dollars,’ a defence ministry official said.

The final contract is expected to be signed within a couple of months after India issues a letter of acceptance to the US government, the IANS news agency reported.

India is likely to opt for an additional six C-17s after the contract is signed for the first lot of 10 aircraft as the IAF is keen on increasing its heavy-lift capability, the report said.

Photo: Marcel van Leeuwen, ZAPP