First batch of S-400 missile systems expected to be delivered by the end of 2021
Moscow:
Russia said today it is working “very hard” to advance the supply of the S-400 surface-to-air missiles to India even though delivery of the first batch of the weapons system is slated for late. next year.
During an online press conference, Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin also said the two sides were working on a mutual logistical support deal and close to sealing a multibillion-dollar deal under which a Indo-Russian joint venture will produce 200 Kamov Ka- 226T attack helicopters for the Indian armed forces.
Asked whether the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) signed between India and the United States will have security implications in the operation of platforms of Russian origin by the armed forces India, Babushkin did not give a direct answer, but said Moscow’s defense ties with India are free from “foreign restriction and interference.”
“We are monitoring relations in strategic areas between India and other countries very closely, including the United States, of course. But at the same time, we are absolutely certain that whatever ties India develops with other countries, they are not in Russia’s interests, ”he said.
Last month, India and the United States signed the landmark BECA agreement that provides for the sharing of high-end military technology, geospatial maps and classified satellite data between their militaries.
“As to our defense cooperation with India, it is free from any restriction and foreign interference, as it reflects the national interests of both countries and we proceed with a great sense of confidence in future progress. of our relationships, ”said Babushkin.
Regarding the S-400 deal, he said: “The lead times have remained unchanged for now. The first batch is expected to be delivered by the end of 2021, but we are working very hard for an earlier supply.”
In October 2018, India signed a $ 5 billion deal with Russia to purchase five units of the S-400 air defense missile systems, despite the Trump administration’s warning that continuing the contract could result in a US sanction.
In view of the evolving security scenario in its neighborhood, India recently asked Russia to explore the possibility of advancing the supply of interceptor-based missile systems that can destroy hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at distances of up to 400 km.
Last year, India made the first installment of payment of around $ 800 million to Russia for missile systems. The S-400 is known as Russia’s most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defense system.
Mr Babushkin said the agreement for the Kamov helicopter and another for the manufacture of 700,000 AK-47 203 rifles in India as part of an Indo-Russian joint venture were in the final stages of completion.
In October 2016, India and Russia had finalized a broad agreement for the creation of a joint venture between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and two Russian defense majors for the acquisition of 200 Kamov Ka-226T helicopters for the forces Indian armies.
According to the agreement, 60 Kamov-226T helicopters will be supplied to India in take-off condition, while 140 will be manufactured in India. Russia had agreed to ensure the transfer of technology to India under the pact.
India and Russia finalized the AK-203 rifle manufacturing deal during Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Moscow two months ago.
On the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA), Babushkin said it will help deepen maritime security cooperation between the two countries, especially in the Indian Ocean region.
The MLSA will allow the military of both countries to use their mutual bases for repair and resupply of supplies in addition to facilitating the intensification of global defense cooperation.
India has already signed similar agreements with the United States, Australia, Japan, France and Singapore.
The Russian deputy head of mission also said the two countries are also working on a number of other military procurement programs, including the supply of another batch of Su-30 MKI aircraft to India. The other major programs mentioned by him relate to main battle tanks, frigates, submarines and missiles.
Kamov helicopters will be supplied to the Indian Air Force and the Army. Both forces have been pushing for a swift conclusion of the deal so that they can replace their aging fleet of existing helicopters within the next three to four years.
Mr Babushkin said Russia is also aiming to secure its largest participation in the upcoming Aero-India, which is considered the largest aerospace exhibition in Asia. The exhibition will take place in Bangalore in February.
“He will also see new developments in our defense partnerships,” he said.
(Except for the title, this story was not edited by GalacticGaming staff and is posted from a syndicated feed.)
