George heads for Uzbekistan today

New Delhi is keen on engaging the strategically important Uzbeks for meaningful dialogue and partnership. While South Block is tight-lipped over the visit, it is understood that Vice Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal M. Mcmahon will also travel to Tashkent to receive the first batch of IL-78 air-to-air refuellers for the IAF.

While India has contracted six IL-78s, the first two are expected to be introduced early this year. The acquisition of the refuellers will give a major strategic advantage to Indian combat aircraft, adding to their existing range. Indian pilots are already in Uzbekistan preparing themselves for the transfer of the aircraft.

An indication of the advantage of air-to-air refuellers was visible at the recent Indo-French air exercises in Gwalior. French Mirage 2000s covered a distance of nearly 10,000 miles with refuellers accompanying them. Indian fighter pilots also had their first experience of mid-air refuelling as they sat behind their French counterparts in the exercises.

While Fernandes’ visit is viewed as exploratory, it is understood the Indian delegation could hold talks on military exercises as well as procurement of equipment.

New Delhi is keen on gaining a foothold in the energy-rich Central Asian Republics.