Thursday, December 23 2004 16:46 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Bangalore: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Asia's premier aircraft-maker today (Dec 23, 2004) made a strong pitch to sell Dhruv, the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) to Malaysia.

The Sarang team (ALH) put up an impressive display of flying skills and the easy manoeuvrability of Dhruv, while the Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) and the Light Combat Aircraft (LCS) were equally impressive.

Prime Minister of Malaysia Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who watched the dazzling display at the HAL airport in Bangalore said, "Malaysia is looking forward for a fruitful cooperation", adding, "it will happen."

"Congratulations on your (India's) progress and success in aeronautical engineering development and your success in developing the three prototype flying machines," Badawi wrote in the visitors book appreciating India's prowess in building modern aircraft.

Later, talking to reporters, Ashok K Baweja, Director (Design & Development), HAL said, "We have been providing spares to Malaysia since last 15 years and we are looking forward to enhance the product range as well as the volume of trade with that country."