ST. PETERSBURG, June 29 (RIA Novosti) - Russia's state-run arms exporter Rosoboronexport and French Thales signed a document Friday on cooperation in the production of naval equipment.

"We know that Thales manufactures high-quality products, and we are certain that our cooperation will boost our mutual export potential on the global arms market," the Russian company said in a statement circulated at the International Maritime Defense Show in St. Petersburg.

Thales is one of the world's major players in the military naval industry. With naval divisions in 10 countries, it provides advanced systems meeting strategic and operational requirements and covering every aspect of naval warfare.

Last year, Thales Naval Division completed construction of Sawari 2 frigates for the Saudi Arabian Navy.

New programs for 2006 included a contract with Spanish shipbuilder Navantia to equip several corvettes and offshore patrol vessels, the supply of naval systems for the new ASW frigates of the Danish Royal Navy and preparation work for the future aircraft carriers program of the British Royal Navy.

Rosoboronexport said June 27 that Russia's exports of naval technology and equipment are predicted to total $2 billion in 2007.