Russia to pay France EUR 720 mln for first Mistral – the source

30.12.2010 Cost of the first Mistral class ship built by French shipyards will exceed EUR 700 mln, reported RIA Novosti referring to a source involved in the negotiations.

Last Friday, Dec 24 Russia and France agreed that two Mistral class ships would be constructed in Saint-Nazaire (France) and two – in Russia under license. The tender was issued in October by Russian defense ministry.

"The first ship will cost EUR 720 mln, the second one – EUR 650 mln", said the interviewee.

According to him, reduced price of the second hull is primarily related with increased Russian party's involvement in the shipbuilding process. "While the Russia's participation in the first ship will be 20 per cent, during construction of the second Mistral it can rise up to 40%", said the source.

Cost of the third and fourth hulls in Russia will depend on shipyard selection, said the source. "The yard has not been determined so far; most probable winners for this order are Admiralteyskie Verfi, Baltiysky Zavod and the shipyard in Vyborg", added the interviewee.

It has not been officially reported how much Russia will pay for all Mistrals. French media agencies previously said one helicopter carrier of this class would cost EUR 400-500 mln.