Sticking point of Mistral talks is hi-tech transfer

12.05.2011 Most problematic issue in Russian-French negotiations on procurement of Mistral class assault landing ships is transfer of hi-tech systems, reports World Arms Trade Analytic Center (WATAC).

According to WATAC, the issue of the ships' configuration should have been settled in the first instance.

Equipment of Mistral class ships includes three-dimensional radar, satellite communication sets Syracuse III, Inmarsat, and FLEETSATCOM, automated tactical control system Zenith-9, and battle information/command system SIC-21.

As was reported by RIA Novosti referring to a source in Russian defense industry, "Russian party would sign a Mistral procurement contract only in case if France agrees to deliver Zenith-9 tactical control system along with production license".

According to the source, "Russians stick out for acquirement of this system, so France's consent to transfer Zenith-9 would determine the contract's fate", points out RIA Novosti.

There are some discords on other systems as well, although they are not of fundamental nature.

Obstinacy of French party at negotiations is because France returns to all NATO's military structures and is unindifferent to what other Alliance members say about technology transfer to Russia.

France will insist on the ship's construction under civil standards with minimal transfer of defense technologies; that is just what happens now, reports WATAC.

At the same time, Russia is primarily interested in transfer of military technologies, both in shipbuilding and equipment. As is known, hardware configuration is just what determines further use of the ship.

Mistral class ships can be used as amphibious transport docks, floating hospitals, or evacuation vessels for humanitarian missions. Onboard control center equipped with advanced communication facilities makes Mistral an ideal command ship which is important for Russia in its long-range operations.