Even as a $1 billion worth contract over manufacturing Kamov KA 226 light helicopters turns out the mainstay of India-Russia defence cooperation achieved during prime minister Narendra Modi's latest visit to Moscow that concluded on Thursday, two other prominent defence deals that were being looked at failed to get formalized.
According to sources, proposal for four Talwar class frigates – stealth warships with guided missiles - were on agenda for summit meeting between Modi and Russian president Vladimir Putin but didn't find mention in the two countries; joint statement.
A partnership for refit and modernisation of all Indian Navy surface ships of Russian and Soviet origin too was expected on the discussion table but no announcement was made in this regard.Currently, there are 35 Russian / Soviet-origin surface ships in the Indian Navy fleet. The value of this business is estimated to be over Rs 35,000 crore. And the combined value of above two opportunities exceeded USD 10 Bn ( INR 66,000 Cr) over next ten years.
Besides, India's recent decision for purchase of nearly Rs 40,000 crore Russian S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems too didn't form a part of the joint declaration.
Ministry of Defence's Dfenec Acquisition Council had given a go-ahead for the Russian air defence systems on December 17.
Twin engine Kamov choppers are believed to become mainstay of Indian Army in mountaneous sectors for their unique utility and an agreement over them is the 'first major platform under Make in India.