India to train Malaysians to fly Russian jets: minister
20 hours ago
KUALA LUMPUR (AFP) — India will train Malaysian pilots to fly Russian fighter jets as part of a pact to upgrade defence cooperation, Indian Defence Minister A.K. Antony said Monday.
In talks with Malaysian Defence Minister Najib Razak, they also agreed to hold joint military exercises and strengthen joint efforts to combat regional terrorism.
Antony said the Indian air force and private aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. would train Malaysian pilots and technicians on the operation and maintenance of Russian Sukhoi 30-MKM fighter jets.
"As part of the joint efforts of the two sides to intensify our bilateral defence cooperation, the Indian air force ... (will) undertake the training of Royal Malaysian air force pilots and technicians," he said in a statement.
Malaysia signed a deal with Russia in 2003 to purchase 18 Sukhoi 30-MKM aircraft. Six of the jets are currently in service, and the pilots have been trained in Russia, according to the defence ministry.
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January 8th, 2008
