Russian Minister for Industry and Trade, Denis Manturov said that Russia supports Modi’s Make in India program and the country is ready to establish centres of competence across the country for the maintenance of Russian-origin military hardware. Speaking at the India-Russia Military Industrial Conference in New Delhi, held on March 17, the minister called for 5 platforms which will help in managing defence co-operation between the two countries. These five platforms will be helicopter building, shipbuilding, armour, aircraft building and anti-aircraft weapons.
He said that India and Russia can sign agreements which will allow enterprises from the two countries to meet Indian requirements in each of the five platforms. He explained the need to reduce the time spent on negotiations so that the both the countries can enjoy defence co-operation stemming from an initiative like this.
Defence Minister, Arun Jaitley also spoke at the event calling on the two countries to take advantage of the initiative by focusing more on joint research and development which facilitates the production of advanced arms and communication.
Russia and India have signed an agreement for the long-term maintenance of the Su-30 MKI fleet of India. It is speculated that the contract is worth $300 million. The countries also signed a five-year agreement for the supply of spares and technical assistance.
Both the countries are also looking forward to sign a final research and development contract for the Fifth Generator Fighter Aircraft (FGFA).