Russia Is Ready To Begin The Project, Trade Minister Says

An official request from the government of India has been sent to Moscow for the start of joint production of civilian aircraft for India, and Russia is ready to get started on the project, according to its Trade Minister Denis Manturov.

The Russian news outlet RT reports that Manturov told the Economic Times of India that Moscow "can offer Russian experience in creating this aircraft, and could consider the possibility of participation both in this project as a whole and in its individual stages from the design stage to after-sales service.”

Manturov added that an agreement for a joint venture to produce up to 200 Ka-226T utility helicopters is expected to be signed later this month. It includes technical assistance, servicing and repairs.

Russian Helicopters Holding is also party to a tender offer to provide two civilian Mi-172 helicopters that will join those already operating in India, Manturov said.

Over the past five years, about 70 percent of India's military purchases have come from Russia, according to the report.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.russianhelicopters.aero