February 8, 2002

'33'

SECOND MEETING OF THE INDIA-RUSSIA INTER-GOVERNMENTAL COMMISSION ON MILITARY TECHNICAL COOPERATION CONCLUDES

    Following is the text of the statement made by the Defence Minister Shri George Fernandes on the conclusion of the second meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental commission on Military Technical Cooperation.

    "We have just concluded the 2nd meeting of the Russia-India Inter-governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation, which begin on the 6th. Both India and Russia considered the issues relating to bilateral military technical cooperation on a mutually beneficial basis. It is evident that the new institutional framework for Military Technical
Cooperation between our two countries is an effective and productive one. I would like to compliment Mr. Klebanov for the constructive manner in which the deliberations have held. The supply of T-90 tanks has also started and Russian side has agreed to consider our request for additional supply of tanks before 31st march, 2002. Trials on SMERCH Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) would be carried out in May, 2002. We have also agreed to discuss cooperation in the field of Satellite Global Surveillance System."

    "The Russian side will shortly send the concept paper on the 5th generation fighter aircraft and thereafter a technical team from our side will visit Russia in the first quarter of this year."

    "It has also been agreed to accord priority tot he setting up of facilities required for the medium refit and upgradation of 877 EKM Submarines in India. Both India Russia noted that Brahmos the Russia India joint organisation has functioned satisfactorily. The creation of the anti ship cruise missile has been a watershed in the history of India Russia cooperation.'

    "It has been agreed to continue cooperation in the development of technologies in the high hi-tech areas. We have also agreed to finalise the standard contract document in the first quarter of the year. "

    It was decided that the next meeting of the Commission will be held in Russia in October 2002.