September 7, 2003	Sunday	Rajab 9, 1424

NEW DELHI, Sept 6: The Indian air force grounded a squadron of Russian-built Sukhoi 30-K combat aircraft after they developed nicks in their engine blades, The Hindu daily said on on Saturday.

Indian air force officials demanded the defective parts be replaced for free, but the Russian manufacturers insisted on payment saying the warranty period had expired, the newspaper said, quoting unidentified sources at the air force.

The report said air force officials have threatened to stall a long-term contract for supply and manufacture of the Sukhoi in India unless the warranty is extended to cover the replacement of the parts.

India has 28 Sukhoi planes, which with modification can carry nuclear weapons. —AFP