Russia has no plan to sign Mistral contract in March

01.03.2010 Source: RIA Novosti, photo: Mistral (militarytimes.com)

Russia and France have no plans to sign Mistral purchase contract during visit of Russian president Dmitry Medvedev to Paris in March 1-3, said the source in Russian defense ministry.

"The question is procurement of one Mistral-class vessel. In the future we want to cooperate with French partners and use their know-how to build three ships more", said the source.

According to him, the talks are in progress. "The document will not be signed during Medvedev's visit to France", added the source.

"Certainly, we'd like to buy such heli-carrier and continue cooperation... to build the carriers here [in Russia]", said the source.

He pointed out that Russia has constructive thoughts in this area, although "we haven't achieved success so far".

France's intention to sell state-of-the-art helicopter carrier to Russia dissatisfied establishment of such countries as Lithuania and Georgia.

Amphibious helicopter carrier Mistral with length about 200 meters is capable to carry six helicopters, four landing cutters or two air-cushion vessels, and somewhat 450 marines.