Defense deals signed by India, Russia in Goa: Key highlights

Benaulim: India and Russia on Saturday signed big-ticket defence deals, including an agreement for the 'game-changer' S-400 Air Defence System and Kamov helicopters and to replace the existing ageing fleets and build new frigates.

We bring to you some key details about defense deals worth billions: 

S-400 Air Defence System

The over $5-billion deal to purchase the long-range air defence missile system, which has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km, will prove to be a game changer for India.

The system is currently deployed in Syria, where Russia is targeting the Islamic State.

Besides, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced that annual military industrial conferences will be held by India and Russia, which will allow stakeholders on both sides to institute and push collaboration.

China inked a deal with Russia in November 2014 for the supply of six S-400 systems.

Also read: India to purchase advanced S-400 Triumf missile defense system from Russia, signs total of 16 agreements

Ka-226T helicopters

Kamov 226T choppers will replace the ageing Cheetah and Chetak choppers. Kamov is a light multipurpose helicopter designed for work in difficult conditions like high mountains, hot climate and marine areas. It allows for reconnaissance, targeting and monitoring of transportation.

It also boasts of incredibly precise hovering ability, excellent manoeuvrability and high safety standards, and has proved to perform better than its western counterparts in Indian heat. 

The chopper is equipped with two Arrius 2G1 engines made by the Turbomeca company. The passenger version of the chopper can carry up to seven people, while the transport version can carry one tonne of cargo inside the fuselage or via an external sling.

The deal is worth more than $1 billion. The helicopters will be made by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) with Russian cooperation.Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) with Russian cooperation.

Also read: India, Russia ink 16 pacts: Triumf missiles defense, frigates, choppers among things India got from 'old friend' Russia

Frigates

An inter-governmental agreement for four frigates through partnership between Russian and Indian shipyards was signed.

While two frigates will come from Russia, two others will be constructed at an Indian shipyard with Russian cooperation.

The frigates will be improved versions of Krivak or Talwar class stealth frigates, and the deal is worth more than $3 billion.

(With agency inputs)