India to Buy More Russian Fighter Jets, Helicopters

Dec. 24, 2012- NEW DELHI- India will buy more fighter jets and helicopters from Russia in a major boost to the defense ties between the two countries.

Pictures of the Sukhoi Su 30MKI. This jet from the flanker family is an air dominance fighter of the Indian Air Force

Under agreements signed Monday, India will acquire kits for 42 Sukhoi SU-30 MKI fighter jets for licensed local production. India will also purchase 71 Mi-17 V-5 helicopters.

The agreements were signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin's day-long visit to New Delhi. The value of the contracts weren't disclosed.

India is already a major purchaser of Russian military equipment, including Sukhoi jets, helicopters and other weapons.

A separate agreement was signed between India's Elcom Systems Pvt. Ltd. and Russian Helicopters to set up a joint venture to manufacture the Ka and Mi brand of helicopters in India.

WSJ