Thursday, Jan 25, 2007
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Deal with Russia on transport aircraft http://www.hindu.com/2007/01/25/stories/2007012506971200.htm
Special Correspondent
Another agreement on aero engines was also signed
India has indicated its final choice on fighter aircraft: Ivanov We have moved beyond buyer-seller relationship: Antony
NEW DELHI: India and Russia on Wednesday signed a protocol of intent for production of a medium-sized, multi-role transport aircraft, a day before President Vladimir Putin arrives on a two-day visit.
Defence Minister A.K. Antony and his Russian counterpart Sergei Ivanov signed the protocol of intent as well as the minutes of the sixth meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission for Military-Technical Cooperation.
Another inter-governmental agreement and contract for licensed production of the RD-33 aero-engines were also signed.
At a joint press conference, Mr. Ivanov said New Delhi had indicated its "final choice'' on the joint production of a fifth generation fighter aircraft.
"Now, India has informed us that a final choice has been made... we can [now] open up contractual work for Indian accession to the project,'' he said, adding that the possibility of India purchasing MiG-35 fighter aircraft was also discussed.
India is in the market for purchasing 125 multi-role combat aircraft. Mr. Antony said India and Russia have moved beyond a buyer-seller relationship to joint research and development and production projects. He cited the BrahMos cruise missile project in this case. Mr. Putin, soon after arrival, will meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the two are scheduled to hold a press interaction at the Hyderabad House.
After this, United Progressive Alliance Chairperson Sonia Gandhi will call on the Russian leader.
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