India seeks answers from Embraer on US investigation
The defence ministry will ask for an explanation from Embraer and may take further steps once it receives a reply, spokesman Nitin Wakankar tweeted
New Delhi/Mumbai: India is seeking information from Embraer SA following reports of a US investigation into the aircraft maker’s dealings across the globe, possibly including the South Asian country’s 2008 purchase of three surveillance jets.
The ministry of defence will ask for an explanation and details and may take further steps once it receives a reply, spokesman Nitin Wakankar tweeted on Saturday.
In 2008, Embraer announced the sale of three EMB-145 airborne early-warning and control aircraft to the Indian government. Embraer has been under investigation by US authorities over business dealings with the Dominican Republic; that probe expanded to include the Brazilian aircraft maker’s involvement with more countries, including India, Folha de S.Paulo reported last week.
Saulo Passos, a spokesman for Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil-based Embraer, didn’t immediately respond to an e-mail, and calls to his office outside regular business hours went unanswered. In July, Embraer set aside $200 million in connection with a probe under the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined a plan of spending $150 billion to modernize India’s military after taking office in 2014. He’s trying to overcome a history of graft scandals and red tape that hurt efforts to upgrade the country’s armed forces. Bloomberg
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!