The remarks came in backdrop of media reports that the ministry has opened an inquiry into a 2009 purchase of two naval tankers. The allegations were that inferior quality of steel was used by the Italian firm, which caused an incident on board the tanker in 2010.
“The Ministry of Defence has not opened any inquiry into navy tankers with so called sub standard steel,” sources said.
However, the deal had come under criticism of the CAG in 2010. A Navy spokesperson said necessary procedures were followed diligently prior to acquisition of these tankers.
The official said a few minor cracks were observed on the superstructure when the ship was returning from Russia with aircraft carrier Vikramaditya.
“The cracks probably occurred due to a combination of factors like sub-zero temp in the region, heavy sea, stormy conditions among others. The repairs were carried out in Lisbon by original equipment manufacturer and the ship was made ready in a few hours,” the official said.