Defense
Russia to decide on buying Mistral warship by yearend - military
Topic: Russia's purchase of French Mistral-class warship

Russia to decide on buying Mistral warship by yearend
© RIA Novosti. Alexey DanichevRelated News
Mistral Warship Offer Symbolizes New Franco-Russian Strategic Partnership
The French Mistral Ship: France Simply Helping Russian Imperialism
Putin to discuss Mistral, investment projects, energy in France
French Mistral warship to visit Russia November 23
Multimedia
Russia will decide by the end of 2009 whether to purchase a Mistral class amphibious assault ship from France, the chief of Russia's General Staff said on Tuesday.
The Russian military earlier announced it was considering buying one of the Mistral class ships, worth 400-500 million euros (around $600-$750 mln), and potentially build three or four vessels of the same class in partnership with the French naval shipbuilder DCNS.
"We will make a final decision on the Mistral purchase by the end of this year," Gen. Nikolai Makarov said at a news conference.
A Mistral-class ship is capable of transporting and deploying 16 helicopters, four landing barges, up to 70 vehicles including 13 battle tanks, and 450 soldiers. The vessel is equipped with a 69-bed hospital and can be used as an amphibious command ship.
Many Russian military and industry experts have questioned the financial and military sense of the purchase.
Russia's current weapons procurement program through 2015 does not envision construction or purchases of large combat ships, so the possible acquisition of a French Mistral class ship is most likely to happen under the new program for the years up to 2020, which is still under development.
NIZHNY TAGIL (Urals), December 8 (RIA Novosti)

Add to blog
You may place this material on your blog by copying the link.
Publication code:
Preview:

Send by e-mail
Leave a comment
Most read
Top multimedia

Image Galleries: The Main Attractions of the Paris Air Show

Video: Sukhoi Su-35S Fighter Performs Breathtaking Stunt at Paris Air Show

Infographics: Group of Eight: Countries and Permanent Members

Cartoons: Polar Explorer Day










