India, Russia to hold talks to renew arms deals

With deliveries of frontline Sukhoi fighter planes and aircraft carrier Gorshkov in a fresh price-related logjam, a high-level Russian defence delegation is arriving here in a bid to sort out the differences.

The delegation comprising top officials from Russian land forces, Navy, Air Force, Ministry of Defence and armament export agencies headed by General of Army Alexi Fedroovich Maslov would be arriving here on June 3 on a five-day visit.

The visit is significant in the wake of reports that Russian manufacturers have sought a review of defence contracts with India demanding millions of dollars more in sale of the carrier and SU-30 fighter aircraft claiming drop in the value of dollar.

The Russians are also keen to tie up new defence deals which include sale of 350 more upgraded T-90 tanks and clear the decks for signing of an agreement for the joint development of a multi-role transport aircraft. The tank deal is expected to be readied in the next two months.

The tri-service delegation headed by Maslov, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian land forces would hold talks with Defence Secretary Shekhar Dutt, three service chiefs Gen JJ Singh, Admiral Sureesh Mehta and Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major.

He will also call on the Defence Minister AK Antony.