New Attack Helicopter Contract Ended by India

The Indian government withdrew a proposed contract for twenty-two attack helicopters. AFP reports that the three remaining offerors were unable to meet the requirements of the contract. Five companies originally bid on this with Bell and Boeing leaving last year. EADS, Kamov and Augusta Westland had continued. India's armed forces have recently had a checkered history of trying to get a helicopter contract awarded. I am sure one of the requirements issue is that the aircraft must operate in the mountains of Kashmir putting performance limitations on the aircraft. India says that a new RFP will be released for this contract that was worth over $500 million.